The announcement came as the desktop graphics software company said the third-quarter results to be significantly below expectations.

Adobe said its third quarter net income, after a one-time restructuring charge, "may approach break-even or a loss", compared with net income of $53.4 million in the year-ago quarter.

This latest forecast compares with a consensus estimate for a third-quarter profit of $0.52 per share, according to analysts surveyed by First Call. In the year-ago third quarter, the company's per share income was $0.55 per share.

Adobe also said its revenue will likely be in the $220 million to $225 million range, down slightly from $230 million the year before.

"These expected results are unacceptable," chairman John Warnock said in a statement.

"The actions taken today are intended toposition the company for long-term growth and improved financial results."

The company said the restructuring will involve streamlining senior management, reorganizing operational divisions and an anticipated world wide work force reduction of 240 to 300 regular employee and contractor positions.

The company expects the move to cut expenses by about $50 million to $60 million a year.