It's easy to select objects with the Layer Panel or move layers into a different order. The panel also makes it faster to add vector or bitmap masks. Simply select the object in the Layers Panel, then chose the Add Mask button at the bottom of the panel. Those who still think of Fireworks as primarily an image optimization program will appreciate the new selective JPEG compression option. Other, smaller programs have offered selective compression for years, so it's a pleasure to see it appear in a fully-featured application.
Selective compression means choosing an area to save at a higher or lower rate.
Use the Preview tab to see how the finished graphic would look. That's only a sampling of the improvements found in Fireworks 4 . Other notables include better export and import options. Instead, options are organized logically in the Export dialogue box. Users will also discover useful refinements in how Fireworks interacts with Dreamweaver and in batch processing.