Several proposals (buttons) for Artboards, Settings and Publish and Export
These are all ideas for better interaction to add to the right-hand panel. I think it should be more visible and accessible when working. Currently, they feel limited.
1)))) The Artboards button should be on the right, above the Layers button.
Justification: Artboards are a central component of the Illustrator workflow, as users often switch between them to organize complex projects. Currently, access to artboards is somewhat relegated (in the top bar or in secondary menus), which can disrupt the creative flow. Placing this button in the right-hand panel, above the Layers button, improves its visibility and accessibility, as the right panel is a constant area of interaction. Additionally, placing it above the Layers button reflects the natural hierarchy of the workflow: first, you select the artboard, then you manage the layers within it.
Benefit: Reduces the clicks needed to navigate between artboards, streamlines the organization process, and improves ergonomics by keeping key tools in one predictable place.
2)))) The Document Settings button should be on the right, above the Artboards button. And in this section, you should have direct access to changing: Name, Unit, Color settings, etc.
Justification: Document settings (such as name, units of measurement, or color mode) are critical settings that users frequently need to adjust, especially when starting a project or adapting it to different requirements (e.g., switching from RGB to CMYK for printing). Currently, these settings are buried in secondary menus, which can be frustrating. Placing a dedicated button in the right-hand panel, above Artboards, ensures these settings are accessible without interrupting the workflow. Including shortcuts to the name, unit, and color settings in this section optimizes real-time document customization.
Benefit: Simplifies initial setup and on-the-fly adjustments, especially for users working on projects with specific technical requirements (such as design for print or web).
3)))) I would also place the Publish and Export button on the right, and I think it should be able to quickly export in the following formats: AI, SVG, PDF, and PNG. These are the most popular formats in Illustrator.
Justification: Exporting is one of the most common final tasks in Illustrator, and AI, SVG, PDF, and PNG formats cover most use cases (editable files, vector graphics for the web, printable documents, and raster images for social media). Currently, the export process requires navigating through multiple menus, which can be tedious, especially for users who export frequently. A dedicated button in the right panel, with quick options for these formats, significantly reduces the time and effort required. Furthermore, the right panel is a logical place for this feature, as users already associate it with project management and completion tools.
Benefit: Streamlines the export process, improves efficiency for repetitive workflows, and meets the needs of professional users working with multiple formats.