Dreamweaver software question

[vwprostock]

So my better half wants Dreamweaver software for web building for Christmas. I don't know a damn thing about this stuff. I did some research and see there is a regular version for $600+ depending on source, and an academic version for $200+.

My question is...is there a functional difference between the two? Or is the academic the same shit but gives teachers and students a break on the price?

Last....is there a semi-equal web building software that isn't sniffing a thousand dollars?

Thanks for any input,

Greg

[AbecX]

[QUOTE=vwprostock]So my better half wants Dreamweaver software for web building for Christmas. I don't know a damn thing about this stuff. I did some research and see there is a regular version for $600+ depending on source, and an academic version for $200+. [/QUOTE]
The academic is the same thing as the full version. You can find the academic for around $200 which is the best deal you're going to find. If she is serious about website building, I would get her the full package and not some warez'd copy, as the manual and additional stuff is worth it for a beginner or pro.

[vwprostock]

She is serious but also a full blown rookie.

So if I have a teacher connection and I have her order the Academic from a reputable place (not a burn copy with a serial number that is suspect), the Academic will come with the manual(s) or not?

Thanks a ton for the info.

BTW...it is 16 degrees here in Colorado Springs today. I miss Dallas already!

Greg

[AbecX]

yes, the academic comes with everything just like the full version. You can buy the academic version online too I believe.

[DarkWolf]

The only problem with the academic versions, their license specifies that they cannot be used for commercial/professional work.

Technically, it's not a big deal, but if for whatever reason she gets caught, you'll be looking at paying for the commercial version anyway. Usually it's some douche that gets wind of someone using an educational or pirated version of software for professional work, and calls the BSA to report it.

Have her keep to the Fight Club rules, and everything will be gravy.

[usmcluke]

If she is wanting to make web pages for your family and such Dreamweaver is a bit of overkill but if you can get it for 200.00 I say go for it. If you want other options that save her from writing her own web applications should she decide to contract I would look into DotNetNuke (http://www.dotnetnuke.com) or if your a MS hater you can look into Rainbow Portal (http://community.rainbowportal.net/) .
I use DNN for 90% of my sites. PM me if you have any questions but if she wants to start making her own skins and such a copy of Photoshop or Visual Studio2005 would go a long way. Well that and some classes at the ju-co or lots of patience and a mastery of proper google searches.

[vwprostock]

Great info folks and I really do appreciatte it!!

Happy Holidays!

Greg

[AbecX]

Indeed, I used photoshop and imageready to make the default layout of my website ( http://abecx.net ), I did all the coding by hand.