XTensions Module for Image Usage in  QuarkXPress Projects

Image Drag and Drop is a sample XTensions module that started life as a developer API fix for our XTensions developer kit. The developer support team has been working diligently to update the XTensions interface and address outstanding requests from the developer community. We decided that this module could represent a validation of their efforts — so here it is, doing exactly that. This sample module is also the first one posted with the source code for XTensions developers to download. We look forward to getting feedback about this sample from the diverse members of the Quark eco-system.         Image Drag and Drop XTensions FAQ with Dan Logan, technical product manager for the desktop division.

What is drag and drop and what does that mean to the QuarkXPress user?

Drag and drop is the fastest and easiest way to get pictures into a QuarkXPress layout. Simply drag the picture files right onto a page and QuarkXPress will import it. If a picture box doesn’t already exist to contain the image then one will be created automatically. You can even drag pictures from other applications such as iPhoto, Adobe Bridge, or Extensis Portfolio onto a QuarkXPress page.

Has drag-and-drop functionality been high on customer wish lists?

We chose drag-and-drop import as the basis for this developer sample code because it’s such a commonly requested feature. Although the Windows edition of QuarkXPress has had this feature since version 4, this sample code includes improved features for our Windows users, and also introduces the functionality to our Mac OS users.

Why are we previewing drag and drop now, in 2008?

Drag-and-drop functionality has become ubiquitous on the computer desktop because it’s an intuitive and highly productive way to manipulate files. Sure, QuarkXPress is conspicuously late to the game, but with functionality such as drag and drop we’re changing that situation.

If this feature is developed further, what would you like to see added?

I look forward to hearing customer feedback on how we should extend the functionality of drag and drop within QuarkXPress.

Installation instructions for the Image Drag and Drop XTensions module:

This XTensions module is easy to install. After you have downloaded and expanded the file, simply open the XTensions directory in the application folder and drag and drop the module in the XTensions folder. The next time you launch QuarkXPress, the Drag-and-Drop feature will be enabled. To uninstall it, use the XTensions Manager in QuarkXPress or simply remove the module from the XTensions folder.

To download this software, you must click here to accept the Quark labs EULA.