Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

Adobe FrameMaker VS ArcReader

Compare Adobe FrameMaker VS ArcReader and see what are their differences

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Adobe FrameMaker logo Adobe FrameMaker

A desktop publishing (DTP) and word processing application that is popular for large documents.

ArcReader logo ArcReader

ArcReader is a free, easy-to-use desktop mapping application that allows you to view, explore and print maps & globes. View high-quality interactive maps authored by ArcMap and published with the ArcGIS Publisher extension.
  • Adobe FrameMaker Landing page
    Landing page //
    2021-10-20
  • ArcReader Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-02-19

Adobe FrameMaker features and specs

  • Structured Authoring
    Adobe FrameMaker offers robust support for structured authoring, which is ideal for organizations that need to maintain consistency and reuse content across multiple documents.
  • XML/DITA Support
    With comprehensive support for XML and DITA, FrameMaker makes it easier to create, manage, and publish technical content.
  • Advanced Formatting
    The software provides sophisticated formatting capabilities, allowing for complex document structures and high-quality output.
  • Cross-Platform Compatibility
    FrameMaker supports Windows and boasts features like PDF generation and HTML5 publishing, making it versatile across different platforms.
  • Multiple Output Formats
    You can publish documents in various formats including PDF, EPUB, web-based HTML5, and more, ensuring wide accessibility.
  • Strong Multilingual Support
    It offers extensive support for multiple languages, which is beneficial for global documentation teams.

Possible disadvantages of Adobe FrameMaker

  • Steep Learning Curve
    New users may find FrameMaker challenging to learn due to its complex interface and extensive functionality.
  • High Cost
    Adobe FrameMaker is relatively expensive compared to similar tools, which can be a barrier for small businesses or individual users.
  • Windows-Centric
    Although powerful, FrameMaker is largely optimized for Windows OS, potentially limiting use for those on other operating systems.
  • Limited Collaborative Features
    While powerful as a standalone tool, FrameMaker lacks some of the advanced real-time collaborative features found in other modern documentation tools.
  • Resource Intensive
    The software can be resource-heavy, potentially requiring more powerful hardware to run smoothly, which can be a constraint for some users.

ArcReader features and specs

  • Free to Use
    ArcReader is a free software tool provided by Esri which allows users to view, explore, and print maps created in ArcGIS.
  • User-Friendly Interface
    Designed for non-GIS users, ArcReader features a simple and intuitive interface that makes it easy for users to navigate and interact with maps.
  • View Published Maps
    Users can view high-quality, interactive maps that have been published by GIS professionals using ArcGIS Publisher.
  • Robust Map Interaction
    ArcReader allows users to zoom, pan, and query spatial data, providing a reasonably interactive experience without needing advanced GIS skills.
  • Offline Use
    ArcReader does not require an internet connection, which allows users to view maps in locations where internet access is unavailable.

Possible disadvantages of ArcReader

  • Limited Functionality
    ArcReader is primarily a map viewing tool and lacks advanced GIS capabilities such as map editing or spatial analysis.
  • Dependency on ArcGIS Publisher
    Maps must be published by ArcGIS Publisher for them to be viewable in ArcReader, making it dependent on other Esri products for map creation.
  • No Customization
    Users cannot create or customize their own maps; functionality is limited to viewing maps published by others.
  • Lacks Online Sharing Capabilities
    ArcReader does not offer features for sharing maps online or collaborating with other users through web-based platforms.
  • Outdated Technology
    As a more traditional desktop application, ArcReader may not integrate well with modern, web-based GIS solutions, and its features have seen limited updates compared to other Esri products.

Analysis of Adobe FrameMaker

Overall verdict

  • Adobe FrameMaker is a powerful document processor suitable for technical writers and professionals who require comprehensive features for creating structured and unstructured content. However, it might be more than necessary for users with less demanding document needs.

Why this product is good

  • Adobe FrameMaker is considered a robust tool for creating and editing long, complex documents. It offers advanced publishing capabilities, support for XML/DITA, and seamless integration with other Adobe products, making it ideal for professional documentation in technical and corporate environments.

Recommended for

  • Technical writers
  • Content strategists
  • Documentation professionals
  • Organizations requiring complex document processing
  • Users needing integration with other Adobe software

Adobe FrameMaker videos

Advantages of Adobe FrameMaker over Word

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ArcReader videos

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Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to Adobe FrameMaker and ArcReader)
Digital Publishing
100 100%
0% 0
Design Tools
79 79%
21% 21
Content Marketing
100 100%
0% 0
Graphic Design Software
0 0%
100% 100

User comments

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What are some alternatives?

When comparing Adobe FrameMaker and ArcReader, you can also consider the following products

MadCap Flare - Documentation for Any Audience, Language or Format

Adobe InDesign - Adobe InDesign is a desktop publishing software application.

Yumpu.com - The UKโ€™s favourite all-inclusive online magazine package

iBooks Author - iBooks Author, free from the Mac App store, allows you to create beautiful Multi-Touch textbooks โ€” and just about any other kind of book.

Readymag - Readymag is a design toolkit that helps create immersive digital experiences without developers in days, not weeks.

Microsoft Publisher - Microsoft Publisher is an entry-level desktop publishing solution.