New InDesign to replace CS3

[annettet17437556]

For 8 years, I've been preparing a quarterly, b/w, 12-page newsletter using CS3.  Since that's no longer supported, I need to get a newer version.  But, which one?  Which version is most similar to CS3 and requires the least learning curve?  All the graphics I use are jpgs from my own files; even if I eventually put them "in the cloud" they will still be my files so I don't know how "cloud based" the software needs to be.  And, once I update, would I be able to import templates from one of my old CS3 newsletters?   I'd appreciate any suggestions!!!

[Derek Cross]

The latest versions of InDesign are CC2015 and CC2017. They are only available on subscription though if you only use it occasionally you can buy a monthly subscription and suspend it when you don't need it (by month only). The InDesign application is downloaded from Adobe and used on your computer in the normal way (Adobe checks online periodically that you're up-to-date with your subscription). There's nothing "cloud based" about it or your files (unless you wish to store copies of your documents externally).

[annettet17437556]

Thanks for your quick reply.  Do you think CC2015 and CC2017 would be better in the long run than CS6?

[Derek Cross]

Yes. CS6 won't be updated.

[annettet17437556]

Thanks!  That seals the deal for CC2015 or CC2017.  I really appreciate your guidance.

[Derek Cross]

When you subscribe to InDesign you have access to both versions. CC2015 is maybe more stable and it might be worth waiting for the incremental upgrade to CC2017 that irons out some of the bugs before installing it.

[rob day]

The subscription lets you install and use any previous version from CS6 on, as well as the most recent CC2017.

[pixxxelschubser]

What's wrong with your ID CS3?

This version still runs for me for old files without any problems.

[jane-e]

Download the free 7-day trial first if you want to make sure everything works before you commit.

[Test Screen Name]

1. If you're giving up CS3 because it is unsupported, be aware (just in case you weren't) that CS6 is every bit as unsupported as CS3.

2. Be SURE you keep your original CS3 files untouched. Once opened in ANY later version, CS3 will not be able to open them ever again.

[Laubender]

Hi Annette,

what is the OS version you plan to run your next version of inDesign?
What is your current OS version you are running InDesign CS3?

Regards,
Uwe

[Laubender · Accepted solution]

Some things to consider:

1. If you ever used SVG export with CS3, you have to know, that SVG export is not supported with InDesign CS4 and above.

2. Getting back to CS3 is impossible once you are creating documents with InDesign CS5 and above, because CS5 and above do not support InDesign CS3's exchange format INX.

Regards,
Uwe