Archive notice: This article was originally published on June 3, 2003. Links and embedded videos are preserved as part of the historical record.
Authorware 7 gives developers of learning programs the ability to efficiently provide content for distribution over the web or on storage media such as CD-ROM and DVD. The software integrates graphics, sound, animations, text and video into e-learning environments and uses the same intuitive user interfaces as the entire Macromedia MX product line. Such as the visual program flowchart and drag-and-drop functionality. With the software, existing Microsoft PowerPoint presentations can now also be used very easily to design e-learning content. The program also supports the import of DVD video, meaning this now very widespread video format can also be used in interactive applications developed with Authorware.
Version 7 also adds so-called “Knowledge Objects” for learning management systems (LMS), enabling simpler communication between such learning platforms and the individual applications. The new “Learning Object Content Packager” also helps developers organize the content and upload it to the LMS. It compiles the metadata, Authorware files and resources, as well as XML manifest files, into an ADL-SCORM-compatible Zip file.
The software imports and exports XML files, so data-driven applications can also be created with it, and provides
developers with other important aids. JavaScript support also allows additional programming depth when needed.
Macromedia Authorware 7 will be available during the month of June – exclusively in English – for Windows 98, SE, Me, NT 4, 2000 and XP. The product costs 2.929 euros for first-time users. The upgrade from Authorware 6.5 is offered for 389 euros, while the upgrade from Authorware 5.x and 6.0 costs 879 euros. A preferential price of 489 euros is available for educational institutions. The Macromedia eLearning Suite costs 3.429 eurosfor first-time users; educational institutions pay 589 euros for it. Volume licenses for major purchasers are also possible.
