Serif PagePlus Starter Edition is generally concidered the best of the few free desktop publishing applications currently available. It is a stripped down version of Serif’s full PagePlus program.
The installation process may be the worst thing about this freebie. Serif requires that a user account be created (personal info is gathered). To activate the software, a 25 character key must be entered. A reboot was required before the installation, but not after the installation – WTF? If you successfully jump through Serif’s installation hoops, you are greeted with a very pleasant user interface. However, it soon becomes apparent that many of the program’s features have been disabled. Serif left the disabled features in the program so that you know what is gained with a paid upgrade. The application comes with 4 themes – these are nice enough, but very plain. More templates can be purchased for $5 or $10 each. The $5 templates are just bad. Here’s an example.
On the positive side – the program works well. I particularly like its Text tool. It is powerful and simple to use. The Drawing tools also are well done. The Photo Editing tools are lacking. Slider controls have been replaced with +/- buttons – simple and effective, but too simple for my tastes. Drag-and-drop make page layout a breeze.
– – – The Bottom Line – – –
I’m not sure who would benefit from this program – perhaps someone who does desktop publishing very rarely. I can’t image that anyone would want to use such a limited program often. I can’t recommend this application because of Serif’s registration requirement. If that doesn’t bother you and your needs are simple, Serif PagePlus Starter Edition may fit the bill.
DUMMR.com 