|
TAAC7—The Alternative Authorware Conference—Atlanta—September
5, 2002—
Continuing its strong commitment to the e-learning
market, Macromedia, Inc. (Nasdaq: MACR) today announced
the availability of Macromedia
Authorware 6.5, the latest version of the industry-leading
visual authoring software for creating interactive
e-learning applications. Macromedia Authorware 6.5
includes support for Macromedia
Flash MX and Windows Media Player file formats;
accessibility support to ensure e-learning applications
and courseware meet governmental guidelines for accessible
content, and improved extensibility features. Authorware
6.5 beta users are enthusiastic about the new and
updated features in the product (see
attached quote sheet), which will be available
for download in late September from the Macromedia
Online Store at www.macromedia.com/go/buyaw65/.
As e-learning applications continue to replace traditional
methods of instruction in learning environments due
to the reduced cost-per-student and the ability to
keep courseware constantly updated, Macromedia Authorware
has maintained its leadership position in this market
because it is both powerful and easy to use. Authorware
6.5 adds even more power and more flexibility, enabling
everyone from beginners with no programming experience
to advanced developers using its powerful scripting
capabilities to create interactive rich media experiences
with ease.
"Macromedia Authorware 6.5 empowers developers
to create accessible, engaging e-learning applications,"
said Pat Brogan, vice president of solutions, Macromedia.
"Authorware is the long-standing leader in this
field and has helped online learning evolve over the
past decade."
"Authorware has always been the best tool for
creating interactive programs, from prototypes to
final delivery—hands down," said Robert R.
Russell, senior interactivity developer, Allen Interactions,
Inc. "Now Authorware 6.5 takes a giant
step forward, with external scripting capabilities
and improved Command and Knowledge Object functionality
that allow us to create programs that are easier to
design and develop, and a breeze to maintain. We are
excited about the possibilities."
Macromedia Authorware integrates graphics, sound,
animation, text, and video into compelling rich media
learning experiences. Database connectivity and built-in
data tracking facilitate the tracking of student progress
and results, which is important for the assessment
of training effectiveness and evaluation of return
on investment. Authorware applications are easily
deployed to the web, corporate networks, and CD-ROM
with consistent, high-quality results on every platform.
Macromedia Authorware 6.5 also includes support for
Macromedia Flash MX, which enables developers to import
content created with the latest version of Macromedia
Flash. A new XML parser enables developers to interact
with large XML files as part of their courseware.
The product is even more extensible than before,
with more than 35 additional properties now open for
developers to more easily write reusable Commands
and Knowledge Objects. Authorware Application Accessibility
combines Knowledge Objects, Commands, models, and
techniques to aid developers in delivering courseware
that can be experienced by people with disabilities.
Windows Media Player support enables Authorware 6.5
to play any media types supported by Windows Media
Player, such as ASF, ASX, WMV, and IVF. For more information
about new features in Authorware 6.5, visit www.macromedia.com/go/aw65/.
PRICING AND AVAILABILITY
Macromedia Authorware 6.5 will be available for download
in late September from the Macromedia Online Store
(www.macromedia.com/store/).
The update is priced at $199 for Authorware 6 users,
and $2699 for new users. For upgrade information and
pricing from other products and versions, visit www.macromedia.com/go/aw65upgrade.
The Macromedia eLearning Suite will also be updated
to include Authorware 6.5. Education, government,
and volume licensing is available.
ABOUT MACROMEDIA
Macromedia (www.macromedia.com) empowers
millions of designers and developers to create effective
user experiences across the widest array of platforms
and devices. Through an open, integrated family of
client, tool, and server technologies, Macromedia
is driving a new generation of rich Internet applications
that will radically improve the Internet experience.
|
