The biggest draw back is the limitation on where all the files go and not having direct access to the HTML. It's a bind putting Javascript in that isn't part of the Netobjects online packages, as text outside the auto generated bits doesn't seem to be treated in the same way (rather like a second class citizen).

The FTP aspect is ok but has very little feedback to the user. It's almost impossible to extract the actual files and publish through an normal FTP client.

I hate the .nod file concept where the whole site is stored in one file. It smacks to me of the Microsoft Outlook .pst issue and seriously reduces your site portability across machines you may wish to work on. Forget opening the HTML file in notepad to tweak a typo, here it's not so easy.

If you want a website that looks and feels just like the templates and javascipt that Net Objects provide then this is probably suitable. However, if you want to inject some style and panache (graphic design and layout as well as DHTML and Javascript) to give your site visual interest and stickability then steer clear.

I tried the demo of Hot Metal and found it more intuitive than Net Objects and it's not much more in cost. I'm going for Dreamweaver at the next upgrade even if it might be a hammer to crack a nut.


Best Web Design Package I've Come Across   August 3, 2001
 12 out of 12 found this review helpful

I've had an imported version of Net Objects MX for a while now, and have to say it's the best web design package I've come across, even compared to the likes of Macromedia's Dreamweaver - it has the rare quality of pairing together an intuitive interface while still allowing a great degree of flexibility and freedom. The two main points it seems to have head and shoulders above its competition are that the interface is entirely desktop publishing based, as opposed to the limitations of "left, right, centre..." packages like Front Page. Also, the links on each and every page you build on a site are dynamic so when you make changes, every other page is automatically updated to reflect the changes without you having to manually go and do it yourself. It might take a couple of hours to get used to the package, but coupled with the excellent manual, you'll have sites up and running in no time at all.