With the development of Interactive Forecast Preparation Systems (IFPS), new avenues of product development have been introduced which will aid forecasters in the forecast process. The National Weather Service at Tampa is developing a Severe Weather Recognition (SWR) strategy in which severe weather indices (such as Lifted, SWEAT, and Total Totals) and forecast parameters (such as CAPE, and helicity) are utilized within the framework of the Graphical Forecast Editor (GFE). The GFE is a powerful analysis and forecast tool that provides output in text and areal graphics. Index and parameter calculations are incorporated into GFE scripts, and thresholds are tailored for the local area. When these thresholds are met, GFE color curves show corresponding threat levels. GFE provides the capability to quickly produce a composite chart of various severe weather parameters. This capability of GFE has two important advantages over previous forecast techniques. 1) GFE allows quick recognition of severe weather potential and 2) GFE enables the forecaster to view multiple meteorological fields in conjunction with the severe weather threat area. The results of utilizing GFE in severe weather recognition will be important in other meteorological disciplines such as hydrology and winter weather. This paper describes a series of techniques that enhance the severe weather recognition process through the use of GFE and how this will affect local operations at the National Weather Service Tampa Bay Area.