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WHATNEXT.TXT
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1992-08-13
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FLODRAW - Next Generation: Status Report
I have been working on the next generation of FLODRAW since
the release of FLODRAW 2.2. The next generation of FLODRAW
is a completely new program that will off many features
suggested by FLODRAW users.
The new program will be a diagramming program similar to the
current FLODRAW. But the similarity is only in what the
program does. The graphical interface is so completely
different that I will call it something other than FLODRAW.
It will be easier and faster to get your ideas on a diagram.
I haven't decided on a name yet.
Right now I'm working with a prototype of the new FLODRAW
program. There are still a lot of problems to resolve, but
I expect to have a version I can offer to registered users
by end of '92.
Based on the prototype I've developed so far, here are a few
of the features that will be available in the next program.
Mouse support. The first release of the program will
probably require a mouse. I'll add keyboard support
later. Most functions can be selected from an icon bar
rather than a menu.
EGA/VGA support. CGA will no longer be supported since
it can't provide the resolution necessary for the screen
displays in the new program. The first release may be
VGA only. But EGA will be supported as soon as
possible.
Text processing. Proportional fonts supported. You
will be able to enter text in two ways. The first way
is to type directly on the diagram as you do with
FLODRAW. The second way is to "link" the text to a
location in the diagram so that you can edit the text at
any time much the same way you would with a word
processor. This unique feature will provide some nifty
text editing functions.
Multiple levels of zoom. You will be able to edit the
diagram at three levels of zoom. A fourth level of zoom
will allow you to easily make changes at the pixel
level.
Ruler grids. Grids will help you control the placement
of symbols, lines, boxes, etc. The grids will replace
the "tab" feature in FLODRAW.
PCX file conversion. The new program will read and
write PCX format files as an option.
There is some bad news, though. Unfortunately, it is
necessary to make a complete break from the old program in
order to provide the improved features in the new program.
Compatibility with old FLODRAW diagrams will be
disappointing since the new program provides twice the
resolution of the old FLODRAW. I do plan to provide a
conversion program to convert old FLODRAW files to the new
format. However, be prepared for differences in text and
symbols between the old and new programs.
I am very excited about developing this new program and I
look forward to releasing it later this year.