Oct 30 2004
Macromedia Contribute 3
Although this release is labeled 3, it is only the second iteration of the client-site website management application for the Mac. In this version, Contribute adds a streamlined, faster interface and adds a previously PC-only feature: FlashPaper.
Contribute is unique as a client side web page creation utility that, with the simplicity of a word processor, empowers end users to edit and create web pages. In a departure from the typical web-based content management system, Macromedia’s solution is the easiest to learn and administrate.
Packed with intuitive navigation and expanding features, version 3 includes simple web page creation and powerful management controls.
As we’ve said before, Contribute is best used as a solution for Mac-based web designers’ clients. Previously, it was possible to administer Contribute sites in Dreamweaver, but in order to use Contribute 3 and Dreamweaver 2004, you’ll need Contribute installed on the same machine as Dreamweaver.
Given this change, the Web Publishing System, which includes Studio MX 2004, Contribute 3 and Contribute online services may be your best bet. The last is a server-based application that facilitates integration with other server-side enterprise services like LDAP and Active Directory.
As a website administrator, you should probably have your own copy of Contribute for troubleshooting purposes anyway. Fortunately, up to installation time, you can chose to install the PC or Mac version.
So, what are the new perks? FlashPaper allows creation of PDF-like documents that can be viewed with the Flash plugin, which is smaller and enjoys a larger install base than Acrobat. Conversion is as easy as printing to a FlashPaper ‘distiller’ that shows up on your printer list. C3 also adds support for .Mac publishing, QuickTime and Safari.
In my user experience, there were a few bumps using Contribute 3 with a site created for Contribute 2 – though no data was lost. The application itself runs well, even on slower machines. As usual, it offers idiot-proof editing, with a tremendous amount of control behind the scenes.
Version 3 is a nice step up in both features and performance. When making a purchase decision, keep in mind the value to your clients. If you support mid-sized to larger companies, the whole Web Publishing System may better fit you and your clients needs..
Contribute 3 retails for $149, upgrades from $79
Buy it from Amazon for $139
Macromedia’s Web Publishing System retails for $2,499
