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After three major releases of Version 5, the time has come for the first release of the next generation of
Cadmatic software, Version 6. A major feature of the V6 software
is the gradual
introduction of a new interface that further eases work and brings new efficiencies throughout the design process.
Version 6.0 contains a large number of new features and innovations. |
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The new user interface in V6 combines a modern look and feel with enhancements welcomed by both novice and experienced users. What catches the eye first is the new attractive visual style, but there is much more. The new interface
changes the way the software is used and allows for faster and more efficient work. In Version 6 it
is available in Plant Modeller with other modules to follow in due course.
From the very beginning the interface development project team were guided by four leading
principles: Usefulness, Ease of use, Efficiency and Familiarity.
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Tabs to switch between command bars
Usefulness has been enhanced by increased context awareness. The main characteristic of the new ribbon interface is the use of tabs to switch between command bars; it can in fact be thought of as an extension of the traditional toolbar interface. The tabs correspond to task areas and contain the
necessary commands and options for each area. Particular attention has been paid to ensure the user’s workflows are optimally supported.
Fewer and more powerful commands
The interface also strives to keep the design process as simple as possible. There are fewer and more powerful commands with
clear and descriptive icons, all contained in the ribbon bar at the top of the screen. View management, for example, has been made easier with a new Views window that packs the functionality of a
previous menu full of commands. The application settings can, likewise, now be found in a single place, organized logically.
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Undo and Redo
Undo and Redo commands are now available, eliminating the message boxes that used to require the user’s confirmation and giving the user freedom to experiment with new designs safely. The heads-up information and prompt display reduces the need to follow the message log and allows the user to maintain focus on the working area while
modelling.
Office 2007 look with
Cadmatic logic
Another feature of the interface is that it has a look and feel that users are familiar with in other
applications. Cadmatic’s distinctive interface is the result of years of development close to users and is already considered very efficient and easy to use. We have recognized the need for standard interfaces, but do not want to abandon our innovative ways that make
Cadmatic stand out among its competitors. We also know that a 3D CAD program is not a word processor and care has been taken to use the standard interfaces in a way that is suitable to our domain. Our current
principle is to use a standard look and feel with the ordinary interface components: windows, command buttons etc. and develop our own specialized interfaces in areas specific to 3D CAD and our
applications. Version 6 combines the standard Office 2007 look and feel with the familiar
Cadmatic logic.
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