[IxDA Discuss] Illustrator vs Fireworks

[Peter Bagnall]

On 8 Aug 2006, at 14:50, Dave (Heller) Malouf wrote:
> Use frames ...
> 1. create a bottom layer or set of layers(that you know repeat  
> across all screens) and set it to share across frames.
> 2. For each distinct screen either create a new frame, or duplicate  
> an existing frame if there is enough carry over.
>
> Print to PDF and it creates a single page for each frame.
>
> This is REALLY great when doing small flow sequences when all you  
> are doing are showing dialogs, and other alternative and exception  
> behaviors.
>
> One problem with this is that it soaks up a ton of memory as the  
> system creates duplicates of images in each frame, but the pain  
> point is worth it over time.

I create masses of layers in FW, one for each part of the UI,  
sometimes even to button level. I share all the layers, and then for  
each frame it's just a matter of switching on the appropriate layers  
for that frame. I've ended up with well over a hundred layers doing  
this, which is a bit of a pain, but it does keep FW moving pretty  
well, and it avoids the duplicate images, which also means if you  
want to change something throughout the design it's very quick.

Frames are so useful though. I don't know where I'd be without them.

--Pete

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