quote:

Originally posted by Jhaas:
As for Flash, how much programming is involved? I set them up with a free trial of Flash and they got a bit of the "deer in headlights" look. I saw a Flash 8 demonstration at the last ASTD Techknowledge conference and the software appeared to have several existing and easy to use templates and learning interactions. How comfortable does one have to be with Actionscript?

Flash is a nasty bit of program, to be honest. How nasty? It depends. If you are just looking to use templates without modification, maybe not too bad. If you are looking at modifying the templates, it gets comlicated fast. And if you ever want to break out of the box and go with custom solutions it can be down right evil.

Most programs can be picked up on the fly with a good manual; Flash, not so much. There are semi-comlicated concepts you need to learn up front, like key framing, shape / motion tweening, symbols, graphics, instances, etc. And that isn't even talking about Actionscript yet. If you are interested in Flash, I would strongly suggest training professionally. I have been through a lot of books, but as Flash is so complicated, it is WAY better to be able to ask questions as you go.

Best of luck!

Have you looked at SWISH? It's supposed to be an easier alternative to Flash and might be a less painful and expensive way to build what you want.

http://www.swishzone.com/index.php

I tried the demo some time ago and was quickly able to build a decent rollover. However, I don't know how long it would take to do full-fledged animations.

I've also used Articulate Engage to create simple Flashes. While it's easy & quick to use, the options are limited.

Many learning management systems come with content development programs. These programs will allow you to quickly develop web-based courses (you can embed the Captivate products). They typically include page templates and question templates too.

I've already chimed in on LMS in another post on this forum but I think this discussion warrents a repeat:

I agree with most everything that's been said. I had no experience with eLearning two months ago when I started a new position. I have been an Instructional Designer for a number of years but hadn't launched into eLearning.

With two tools I have been happily creating courses for online learning.

The tools: Captivate and Moodle.

I find Captivate very user friendly and their most recent version (3) has just been released with many bug fixes previously mentioned.

Moodle is an open-source (free w/ donation recommended) LMS-type system. It has been applied across many Universities and colleges and my company installed it on our web server early this year. I recommend taking a look at it as right out of the box (download) it's pretty powerful. The moodle.org website was built using Moodle and is a great representation of what it can do.

That's my two cents...

I would strongly recommend looking at Wise Publisher, 703-932-8839. I was a Director looking to join an organization that brings user friendly and intelligent software to the table.

I've been researching software packages and companies that provide an e-learning suite and this by far is one of the best. Here are some of the reasons why I like it:

Complete learning and certification management solution

o Create multi-media online training materials at significant savings due to the efficient use of the tool

o Manage the content in a superior manner – object library allows extensive reuse and significant maintenance benefits

o Deliver content – online, class room or hybrid

o Administer tests and certifications, including certificates of different formats (to be framed, badge size, etc)

o Manage workforce needing certifications at multiple levels (local, regional, national, company specific, etc) – pre-requisites, lapsing certification, reminders to students and managers, reporting, etc

All this is available in one easy-to-use interface in a web environment, allowing dispersed management team to keep on top of its respective staff.

Call me if you have any questions I'd be happy to help.

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