We're excited to make a new version of DaVinci available to you as a trial download. This new prototype version contains two important improvements:
1. An expanded symbol library
2. A converter that allows you to re-use old Apex sketches
Use old Apex sketches inside DaVinci
Here in the labs, we've built a tool that converts sketches from Apex formats into DaVinci. This means you'll be able to open reports with legacy sketches in them, then edit and save them right in DaVinci, without having to use another sketcher. After conversion, your older sketches will show up in DaVinci as if they started out there. Right now we're able to convert Apex versions 2, 3, and 4. Eventually, we plan to support the conversion of other file formats as well. And while we can't give away the final version of the converter for free, it will be very affordable at under $25.
To import an Apex sketch, simply click on "Import Sketch" from the File menu and browse to the Apex file that has the legacy sketch. Or, in WinTOTAL, you can simply load any report with a legacy Apex sketch in it and click on the 'Edit' button in the Sketch PowerView. Be sure that 'Sketch With...' is set to 'DaVinci'.
Click here to download a trial update of DaVinci Desktop Pro, including the Apex converter.
Plethora of symbols
DaVinci already has a standard set of symbols. But we know you'd like to have more than what's in there now. So we've built a larger library of over 100 additional symbols, including the most common requested ones we received from you. That includes more types of stairs, ceiling fans, autos, furnishings, an eraser and more.
Click here to download a trial update of DaVinci Desktop Pro with the expanded symbol library.
The exciting future in sketching
In the near future, we'll release these new features as part of a new edition of of the product: DaVinci Desktop Pro Edition. Although there will be a charge for Desktop Pro, it'll be very affordable. We plan to offer it at an introductory price of $23. That's a special deal to commemorate our 23rd anniversary.
These improvements started as feedback from appraisers like you. As we build these new features in the lab, we do our best to make them available for you to try out when they're ready. That's why we're allowing you to download and try this out before it's sold as a final product. So we look forward to you feedback. Please send your thoughts and feedback to labs@alamode.com. We read every message we get, and we're always on the look out for the next bright idea.
