Microsoft Tests New Web Design Tool

Microsoft on Monday released the first public build of Expression Web Designer (EWD), the last component of its upcoming Expression suite to become available in Community Technology Preview form. Web Designer, a successor to FrontPage, joins Expression Graphic Designer and Interactive Designer.

Formerly known by the code-name "Quartz," EWD uses a WYSIWG interface to help users build standards-based Web sites with support for sophisticated CSS layouts. The tool also closely integrates with ASP .NET 2.0 on the backend. Microsoft is expected to release Expression in final form early next year. The Web Designer CTP is available for download for Windows XP and higher.