Adobe has announced a free public beta of a new WYSIWIG web design tool it has presently dubbed Muse (code name). It is a web design tool built on Adobe’s AIR platform, created with the aim of easily allowing graphic designers familiar with InDesign to create web pages without the need to code in HTML. It was developed in response to requests from graphic designers who typically design the look and feel of a website, but who were frustrated by the inability to turn their design directly into a webpage.
The program is said to offer simple site maps, master pages and a range of other site-wide tools that make it relatively easy for someone who has not learnt HTML to create a professional and complete websites with web 2.0 elements.
Muse allows graphics designers the ability to combine images and text as they would in InDesign, giving them a familiar interface within which to work. When users are ready to test how their design functions as a website, they can test it and then publish it using Adobe for hosting, or exporting the site to their own provider.
When the free beta trial ends early in 2012, users will be able to use the program as part of a subscription service when it will cost $20 a month. A discount is available where 12 months are purchased in advance for $180, bringing the monthly cost down to $15.
Adobe currently doesn’t have plans to introduce it as a standalone product arguing that the subscription model helps to keep all users on the same version.
