GDT 150 Design for the Internet
Handout: Dreamweaver Interface
The Dreamweaver interface is very similar to the interface used in other Macromedia products, so if you’re familiar with programs like Freehand, Shockwave, or Flash, the interface will seem somewhat familiar. Dreamweaver uses Inspectors to define attributes for elements; they can be made visible by clicking their icons in the launcher or mini-launcher. Additionally, they can be shown with keyboard shortcuts, and by selecting them from the view menu.
The Objects Palette is used for inserting commonly used elements into your document. Again, keyboard shortcuts and menu commands can also be used, but the Objects palette is often the most convenient way. At the top of the palette, there is an arrow that allows you to see additional options for what the palette displays; options are Characters, Common, Forms, Frames, Goodies, Head and Invisible.
The Properties Inspector enables you to change the properties of each element in your document. It can show two sets of options, basic and advanced. To show one or the other, simply click the arrow in the lower right-hand corner to show or hide the bottom half of the palette.
The Launcher and the Mini-launcher allow you to show or hide other Inspectors with just a mouse click. The Mini-launcher is located at the bottom right-hand corner of the document window; it’s always visible.
