New Corel software package aimed at SMEs

Graphics software developer Corel has introduced a new edition of Graphics Suite targeted at small print and design businesses.

CorelDraw Graphics Suite 2017 – Small Business Edition enables UK SMEs to get the software, launched earlier this year, in a special package that includes three licences for less than the cost of two.

The company said the bundle equips small businesses operating in the areas of creative design, signmaking, engraving and printing with a cost-effective, in-house marketing tool.

The software, which can be used for applications including logo design, web graphics and billboards, includes LiveSketch, a new drawing tool that the company said makes sketching vector graphics feel as natural as pen and paper.

Other upgrades in this version include various workflow enhancements and support for new technologies including advanced pen and touch devices, Microsoft Surface Dial and Ultra HD 5K monitors.

The suite also includes a range of tools to facilitate vector design, page layout and photo editing as well as 10,000 clipart and digital images, 2,000 high-resolution digital photos, more than 1,000 fonts, 350 templates and five hours of training videos targeted at self-taught users not operating in the design field.

“Today’s small business owner needs a way to create professional-looking graphics that make an impact on customers, but not on their budget,” said CorelDraw Graphics Suite product manager Sobia Hameed.

“It’s our mission to make great graphic design software more accessible to everyone – whether you’re a graphics professional or just getting started.”

CorelDraw Graphics Suite 2017 – Small Business Edition is priced at £899.99 and offered exclusively to firms with fewer than 25 employees.

Headquartered in Ottawa, Canada, Corel was founded in 1989. It has a number of other global offices, including one in Bedfordshire. CorelDraw has around 15 million users worldwide.