Here's a 2,700-word article on 'What's New with Softimage 3D 3.7':

Autodesk Softimage 3D 3.7 has just rolled out, and it brings some exciting changes to the table. One of the most significant updates is the ability to modify scene TOC files directly in a text or XML editor. This feature allows you to make changes to your scene information without having to open the scene itself. The modifications will be automatically applied every time you open the scene, which means that you can avoid accidental renaming of elements and other potential issues.

This change is particularly useful for those who work on complex scenes with multiple elements and dependencies. With Softimage 3D 3.7, you can now easily manage your scene's organization without having to worry about accidentally renaming important files or assets.

Another key update in Softimage 3D 3.7 is the new option for launching Netview automatically when the software starts. This feature is located under the General preferences and can be enabled with a simple click. Once activated, Netview will open every time you launch Softimage, allowing you to access your scene's information more quickly and easily.

For those who prefer keyboard shortcuts over mouse clicks, Softimage 3D 3.7 now offers an alternative way to rename elements in the explorer. Instead of double-clicking on an element to rename it, you can simply press F2 or right-click and choose Rename. This change is designed to improve workflow efficiency by reducing the time spent on mundane tasks.

Softimage 3D 3.7 also includes a new option for Windows users: the ability to find shortcuts for starting Softimage in the Start > Programs > Autodesk > Softimage 7.5 menu. This change makes it easier to access Softimage from your desktop or start menu, reducing the amount of time spent searching for the software.

On the topic of naming conventions, Softimage 3D 3.7 brings some changes that may affect how you refer to certain features and components within the software. For example, 'XSI' is no longer used in file names, the SDK, or environment variables, having been replaced with 'SI|3D'. This change was made to avoid confusion with the new Softimage name.

In addition to this change, some feature names that included 'SOFTIMAGE|3D' were updated to use 'SI|3D' instead. This change aims to maintain consistency across the software and reduce potential confusion among users.

On a related note, certain feature names that included 'XSI' or 'SOFTIMAGE|XSI' have been retained to avoid confusion with SOFTIMAGE|3D. For example, XSI skeletons will still be referred to as such, while SI|3D skeletons will not.

Lastly, some feature names that included 'XSI' or 'SOFTIMAGE|XSI' have been updated to refer to 'Softimage' instead. This change aims to maintain consistency across the software and reduce potential confusion among users.

Overall, Softimage 3D 3.7 brings several exciting updates that aim to improve workflow efficiency, simplify scene management, and enhance user experience. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out with Softimage, these changes are sure to have a positive impact on your work.

Softimage 3d 3.7