I would like to refer to the complexity of the Mission-X Editor. I think it would only be fair that I'll write something about this, so people I fail to contact at least will have my respond in some way.
First I would like to remark that the Editor main goal was to expose as many features the Mission-X plugin have and hopefully will make mission designers life a little easier. In some ways I think the Editor does deliver in some parts, but lacks in others.
User Interface: The user interface was made after many trials and errors to work with the QT RAD tool. It will take some time until I'll figure out how to leverage more options of the tool, and hopefully I'll add or remake some of the screens I created.
Bugs: I would like to crash as many bugs as can be, but if I won't receive feedback I might miss them.
Cross Platform: One of the things I have to deal with is the difference in look and feel when testing same code in different OSes. Currently MAC fonts sizes are in-consistence, but this is also a tool issue. I'll continue to investigate or at least resize the fonts in some key areas to make the life of MAC users easier.
Complexity: Yes/No. Simple missions are not complex, but missions with advanced options can be more complicated. If you are not afraid in writing XML files, you can use the designer guide and start writing your own mission, no editor is needed. If you prefer the GUI approach, then start simple. Read the editor guide first, watch the tutorials and remember you can always contact me.
I will continue and work on this tool, but sometimes it is hard because I need to prioritize my time between the plugin and the editor. And right now I'm working on the v2.1.28.x version of the plugin and therefor I have less time on the GUI interface.
Last, Here is an e-mail I tried to send to one of the users that commented on this forum, and unfortunately the mailbox could not be reached:
=== Start of mail quote ======
I translated your message, and I think you are right in some ways, creating a mission can be complicated.
To be able to to create a mission I always suggest to:
- Read the editor manual.
- Watch the tutorials, they can be of a good starting point to better understand how to create a mission.
- Try a simple mission, do not rush it.
- Stuck ? Send me a direct mail. I'll try to assist and if need to fix things.
The current Mission-X Editor was not designed to be simple, but to expose as many features of the plugin.
I admit that there is lot of work to be done from UI perspective.
If I may ask:
- what made the editor so complex ?
- Did you try to just fire it up and try your luck or
- Did you first go over the manuals and tutorials and tried to mimic the technique.
- Was there a specific step or screen that frustrated you ?
=== End of mail quote ======
Your constructive feedback is important, so I'll be able to fix or re-design parts of the editor to make it more accessible.
Just send me an e-mail.
Until next time
Cheers
Saar