Product Reviews

Ask somebody what springs to mind for online selling and chances are it's eBay. iSale's fifth version continues to make a breeze of auctioning wares on the site, with new features aimed at making the process easier. Libraries allow you to organise auctions - ones for current/archived auctions are predefined and more can be made. They complement the existing groups and smart groups functionality, though libraries seem geared to keeping iSale running smoothly.

More than 200 templates are provided and can now be edited graphically. Hardcore users retain the ability to create pages from HTML and other assets. In the graphical editor, predefined text and pictures are dragged from the layout panel on to the page; an iWeb-style horizontal bar indicates

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the insertion point, and elements are removed using the cross attached to them, like widgets on the Dashboard. Even beginners will understand the visual cues. Placing images still employs a file dialogue: functional enough, though an iLife 08-style Media Browser would have improved iPhoto and Aperture integration for image-heavy auctions. A quirk in undo functionality also grates: text changes can be reversed but not images.

Facebook support adds new auctions from iSale to your profile. With an enticing auction, it's a good way to reach those who rarely frequent eBay. Support for hyperlinks in auctions also makes a welcome return, thanks to changes in eBay policy.

Image and text clippings can be gathered from websites in the Research Assistant. Sites used for research can be changed in the preferences, though one retailer's website wouldn't open in iSale, despite working in Safari. Clippings can be kept in folders and are a good way to mock up pages. The assistant's window size may be a problem for low-resolution displays, as it covers one-quarter of the auction page.

Without the ability to add notes and bookmark web pages, the research assistant is more of a repurposing tool. iSale is still a compelling application, though continued compatibility with eBay may be the best reason to keep investing in it.