Are lighting application software programs useful for people who
are not involved in lighting design full time?  Lighting
application software programs are not as intimidating as they
once were. Depending on the type of program, they are user
friendly for novices as well as full time lighting designers.
But, this ease of use is like a double-edged sword: if you don't
know the fundamentals, you can wind up with a less than
desirable lighting system.  With this in mind, let's see what's
currently available from lamp and lighting fixture
manufacturers.  Software program categories  Engineers and
contractors are using lighting software programs to assist in
the design of new construction projects and in planning the
retrofit of existing facilities. These programs are generally
classified into two categories.  * Less powerful
retrofit/relighting programs, which may have some lighting
design capability.  * More powerful programs, which can prepare
a complete lighting design layout and fixture schedule while
also cr