Specifically, the Creative Cloud.  Starting in June, say goodbye boxed or downloadable software from Adobe.  From there on out, it’s Adobe Creative Cloud.

There are upsides and downsides to this:  Adobe software becomes affordable, there’s less chance of piracy, and you’ll always have the latest and greatest versions.  But some companies have tight networks that won’t allow much to go outside (one place where I’ve worked as a contractor forbids access to Dropbox or Box storage), so that will become a problem in storing and sharing files.

Still, the Adobe Creative Suite at only 840 bucks a year?  Seems to be a bargain compared to a one-time cost of more that 2000 dollars, and that’s enough of a budget buster for even the most financially robust small creative shops or designers.

I think it’s a good thing.

UPDATE:  Adobe TV clears up a few falsehoods about CC membership.