Re: Graphic converter query - transparency

Jim <jim@[EMAIL PROTECTED]
> wrote:

> Woody <usenet@[EMAIL PROTECTED]
> wrote:
> 
> > > In the general case, it's impossible to tell what software does from
the
> > > GUI.
> > 
> > I have never found that to be the case. I have always found it
> > reasonably easy to work out what the software does from the UI.
> 
> Same here. In fact call me Mr. Silly but I thought that was the whole
> _point_ of GUIs - to be able to use software (at a basic level at least)
> without having to use a manual. 

Not the way I've ever viewed it.  The aim was always to make it easier
to learn how to use the software, not to replace the manual.

That's why almost all early Mac software came with excellent manuals
(well into the System 7 era), and excellent multimedia tutorials in many
cases.  It's how I learnt how to use MacDraw II and MacWrite II.

>If you want to know all the ins and outs
> then yes, a well written manual is a must, but for basic general use a
> manual is only required if the UI is bad.

I say `no', having tried it that way and having found out that the only
way I can make proper use of any software other than the simplest is to
read the manual.

Rowland.

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