Could someone tell me if inkscape has these features or if they are on a road map. If they are not on the road map maybe someone could enlighten me as to why they are not.
Here is my list ...
1. A layer pallet with the following functionality.
Here is a basic screen shot of how it might look: http://codebot.org/inkscape/layers.gif
The explanation: Add a layer pallet. The pallet should allow you to visually see each layer with thumbnail previews of each layer, element, and group. The pallet should allow you to create and delete layers as well as group and ungroup items. It should allow you to change item visibility and perhaps item opacity. You should be able to drag items in the pallet to reorder them. You should also be able to optionally change the names for items if you so choose.
2. True docking windows for color mixer, fill and stroke, and layer pallet,
The explanation: Allow more windows to be docked to the right/left/bottom side of the main window. Remember the docked layout between inkscape sessions and provide the ability to dock or undock those windows.