Multimedia

Because it avoids complex operations in Javascript and DHTML and has an interface similar to common word processing applications, Adobe PageMill is a Web development application that appeals to users with little or no experience in Web design. However, elementary directions are labeled "Tips" and set apart from the main text, which allows more advanced readers to skip past them.

Readers get a basic overview of the Internet and HTML in general and then learn about PageMill 3's interface. The book then shows how to create pages, edit and format text, insert images and plug-in objects, create and edit tables, add links, use frames and forms, troubleshoot their HTML, and manage an entire site.

As opposed to the author's previous edition on PageMill 2, this book features cross-platform instructions. One caveat: since PageMill 3 varies so much between Macintosh and Windows, the doubling up of commands and menus could be confusing despite the book's clear and thorough captions. Slow and careful reading at these stages is advised.

As with other Visual Quickstart Guides, PageMill 3 for Macintosh and Windows: Visual Quickstart Guide is meant to serve as a reference, not just a tutorial. One can access needed information through the index or the table of contents or by flipping through the labeled thumb tabs. Appendices show all toolbars, menus, commands, and keyboard shortcuts, thus making PageMill 3 a complete and practical manual. --Angelynn Grant

Topics covered: Cross-platform instructions on how to create Web pages and Web sites using Adobe PageMill 3, including using all menus, commands, and toolbars; creating pages; editing text; adding images and links; using tables; frames and forms; and troubleshooting and site management in step-by-step guides with accompanying screen shots; helpful tips for appropriate for beginners and intermediate users.

The author first teaches you how to plan your Web site as you consider your audience, content, resources, and navigational features. You then learn how to add and format text and add a variety of background and icon graphics to your pages. Next, the authors delve into designing pages with tables, frames, and forms and making more interactive pages (filled with GIF animations, Shockwave, QuickTime movies, sound, and Java applets).

With your Web site basically done, you work on attracting an audience by, for example, registering your site with search engines, tracking hits, using META tags, and simply adding your URL to your organization's logo, ads, and other output. You also use the newly integrated (and enhanced) SiteMill features to tackle site-maintenance issues such as link maintenance, searching and replacing, and error fixing. The specialized final chapters focus on creating Web storefronts using Open Market's (formerly ICentral's) ShopSite Express and on extending PageMill's functionality via plug-ins and .pdf files.

A full-color section shows sample PageMill sites created by various designers. An appendix lists online resources for graphics, animations, movies, sound files, JavaScripts, and Java applets. The included CD-ROM comes with trial software, JavaScripts, Java applets, and graphics, as well as files for the book's exercises. These projects are accompanied by thorough discussions of features, artistic guidance, technical advice, and screen shots. --Kathleen Caster

One of the first WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get) HTML editing programs on the market was Adobe's PageMill -- and it's still one of the best. Now, PageMill 2 For Dummies shows you how to create your Web pages. Plus, on the book's accompanying bonus CD-ROM, you get loads of ready-to-use software and templates to enhance your Web publishing and design experience.