Summary

Aldus PageMaker is page layout software that allows the ready combination of text and graphics in columns for printing.

PageMaker version 3.0 was released in 1988. PageMaker was first released in July 1985, soon after the release of the LaserWriter in March 1985. It was a key element in the arrival of what came to be known as the desktop publishing revolution, the other key elements being the networkable Macintosh Plus (released January 1986) with an external floppy disk drive and the Apple LaserWriter with in-built Adobe PostScript page description software.

PageMaker was the first desktop publishing program, introduced initially for the Apple Macintosh but later also for computers running the Windows operating system. It was a key element in the desktop publishing (DTP) revolution that revolutionised the publishing industry. PageMaker and the personal computer and the LaserWriter printer did in minutes what it once took hours to accomplish with traditional typesetting, layout and pasteup methods. Reports, essays, brochures, newsletters and all manner of other printed works could now be produced on the desktop with combined text and graphics.

The donor used this program in his graphics design business. The donor considered that programs such as PageMaker revolutionised the way small business could make and change advertising material, user manuals, internal forms and newsletters with a minimum of cost and at short notice. It allowed the business in which he was employed to become publishers of short runs and gave them a flexible advantage over big business.

Part of a representative collection of hardware, software, trade literature and promotional material that documents the history of the Apple company, and its contribution to, and impact on the computer industry and society.

Physical Description

Aldus PageMaker 3.0 software package consists of the following: User Manual Reference Manual License Agreement Installation Guide Getting Started Floppy disks, 5 3.5 inch floppy disks version 3 Floppy disks, 8 3.5 inch floppy disks version 5

Significance

PageMaker was the first desktop publishing program, introduced initially for the Apple Macintosh but later also for computers running the Windows operating system. It was a key element in the desktop publishing (DTP) revolution that revolutionised the publishing industry. PageMaker and the personal computer and the LaserWriter printer did in minutes what it once took hours to accomplish with traditional typesetting, layout and pasteup methods.

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