Inspiration is unique software because it is intuitive. You start using it for brainstorming, diagrams, charts, planning, whatever and it simply flows. Oh, and this package offers outlining and diagramming in one package. That's right, it's just one click away and you can switch between them, unlike the OmniOutliner/OmniGraffle combo. This is very convenient. Okay, the packages don't really compare in features - I have them all - but for numerous outlining and diagramming stuff, Inspiration works beautifully. The functions are good, with excellent printing facilities, such as page breaks and user definable header and footer. This is one of few software packages that to me feels and breaths Mac. Yes it has its own interface, and has a bit of nostalgic Mac feeling to it, but it really works. You know, I love OmniGraffle for its graphics and some of its powerful feautures, but it is also cluttered by pallets and drawers and functions that lie more than a click away. Inspiration is simply there with a very clear setup that doesn't require numerous pallets. Just click and start typing for a new item to appear. Just drag a connection from one block to the other for a connection. No switching of tools required. Inspiration is meant for rapid entry and thought flow - check out features like rapidfire and such. So Inspiration might not present you with cutting-edge Mac OS X graphics, but it is a productive tool made for your brain.
I don't know if the new version is worth the upgrade. At least they've finally added live scrolling. The auto-arrange function seems to work great. As the previous reviewer stated, it's a bit of missed opportunity. Still, I'm happy that they've not totally altered the productive interface for a more regular Mac OS X interface. I highly recommend this tool, especially for students. If you need a good outliner and diagram package to help you visualize and structure ideas and stories at a reasonable price, this is it. Try it out extensively before you buy.