QuarkXPress defines and dominates high-end publishing in much the same way as Adobe Photoshop does photo editing.

With its enhanced interface, support for transparency and new collaboration features, it’s the best release in years.

When you think of photo editing, the chances are you think of Adobe Photoshop. However, the majority of non-professional users don't need Photoshop's high-end power and can't justify its cost. That's where Paint Shop Pro (PSP) comes in. Its low price is definitely its initial attraction, but that has never stopped it aiming high. At times, as with version 6's introduction of vector layers, it has even left Photoshop trailing behind. However, version 7's minor fiddling was a serious letdown and as time passed, it began to look as if PSP had run out of steam. Version 8, though, shows this isn't the case.You begin to realise how fundamental the overhaul has been as soon as you load the application.

Piranesi gets the major overhaul of interface and tools that its extraordinary creative power deserves

Piranesi gets the major overhaul of interface and tools that its extraordinary creative power deserves

New effects enable richer design results, while a host of other improvements boost productivity.

New multiple page support and improved text handling, but the program’s main strength remains its underlying speed.

What makes PDF (Portable Document Format) unique is that it can provide an exact electronic replica of any document from any application on all major platforms, including all text, graphics and fonts. It’s an amazingly flexible format with a myriad of uses ranging from electronic manuals and e-books, through secure document exchange and archiving, to multimedia presentation and high-end commercial print.

Non-destructive image processing and creative filters feature in this comprehensive upgrade to the market leader.

One way to get your Website's logos and page titles to literally stand out is by making them 3D. Xara3D is designed to make the whole process a cinch.

Still heavy going, but a raft of improvements means it’s the most comprehensive drawing package on the market.

Improved handling of templates, tracing, text and layers along with new table support, but ultimately X4 disappoints