Autodesk 2000 Annual Report Download - page 11

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10 FY 00 Autodesk, Inc.
The intuitive interface eliminates many of the com-
monly accepted boundaries between modeling, ren-
dering and animation, and offers instant feedback;
users can see the results of their actions in real time,
as they are applied. Shaded views with real-time
feedback allow users to visualize natural, real-world
environments in which they can directly manipu-
late objects, regardless of scene complexity. Because
3D Studio MAX software maintains a data history of
geometry creation and modification, users can return
to and change any step, at any time, without having to
redo prior work. 3D Studio MAX is also the only envi-
ronment that can run Character Studio®, a powerful
character-animation and skinning plug-in software
product offered by Autodesk.
flame*
flame* is an on-line, resolution-independent, non-
linear, uncompressed digital system. The system is
used by creative professionals to create, edit and com-
posite special visual effects in an on-line, real-time
environment. Easily integrated into a suite environ-
ment and possessing the power and features neces-
sary to serve as the core of a fully digital suite, flame*
is designed to allow the operator to create desired
effects with near instantaneous feedback. A complete
flame* system includes the flame* software, a Silicon
Graphics, Inc., or SGI, Octane workstation, discreet
storage and various I/O devices.
inferno*
inferno* is an on-line, non-linear, resolution-
independent, uncompressed digital system providing
all the features of flame* with film tools,and increased
image resolution and color control for digital film
work. The system also features tools for grain man-
agement, wire and scratch removal and color calibra-
tion.A complete inferno* system includes the inferno*
software, an SGI Onyx2 workstation, discreet storage
and various I/O devices.
Product Development and Enhancement
The majority of Autodesk’s basic research and product
development has been performed in the U.S., while
translation and localization of foreign-market ver-
sions, as well as some product development, are per-
formed by development teams or contractors in the
local markets.Autodesk’s product-related functions in
Europe, including software development,localization,
quality assurance and technical publications, are
centralized in Neuchâtel, Switzerland. Production in
Europe is centralized in Ireland,and production in Asia
Pacific primarily takes place in Singapore.
Autodesk intends to continue recruiting and hiring
experienced software developers and to consider the
licensing and acquisition of complementary software
technologies and businesses. In addition, Autodesk
will continue to actively collaborate with and support
independent software developers who offer products
that enhance and complement AutoCAD software and
other products offered by Autodesk.
The technology industry is characterized by rapid
technological change in computer hardware, operat-
ing systems and software, as well as changes in cus-
tomer requirements and preferences. To keep pace
with these changes,Autodesk maintains an aggressive
program of new product development.Autodesk ded-
icates considerable resources to research and devel-
opment to further enhance its existing products and
to create new products and technologies.
The software products offered by Autodesk are inter-
nally complex and, despite extensive testing and
quality control, may contain errors or defects. Defects
or errors may occur in future releases of AutoCAD or
other products. These defects or errors could result
in corrective releases to Autodesk’s products,damage
to Autodesk’s reputation, loss of revenues,an increase
in product returns, or lack of market acceptance of its
products,any of which could harm Autodesk’s business.
Autodesk believes that its future results will depend
largely upon its ability to offer products that compete
favorably in terms of reliability, performance, ease of
use, range of useful features and other factors. Delays
or difficulties in product development and enhance-
ment may result in the delay or cancellation of planned
development projects, and could harm Autodesk’s
business. Further, increased competition in the mar-
ket for design, drafting, mapping or multimedia soft-
ware products could also have a negative impact on
Autodesk’s business.