live e-learning final version › clippingsme-assets › cuttingpdfs › ... · 2018-08-05 · how...

Do Not Reproduce v1.0 © 2000 brandon-hall.com

Live E-Learning

How to Choose a System for Your Organization

by Brandon Hall, Ph.D. and Margaret Driscoll, Ed.D.

brandon-hall.com Web site: www.brandon-hall.com

E-mail: [email protected] 690 W. Fremont Ave., Suite 10

Sunnyvale, CA 94087 Ph 408.736.2335 Fx 408.736.9425


Table of Contents

Part I 1

Introduction 2

What You Will Find in This Report 2

What Is Live E-Learning 3

How Live E-Learning Is Being Used 4

Benefits and Limitations of This Technology 5

How to Select a Product That’s Right for You 7

Questions Customers Should Ask Vendors 9

Using RFPs to Your Advantage 12

The Best Live E-Learning Tools 14

Part II 16

The Companies and Products 17

Tier 1 – Instructional Capabilities 19

Centra Symposium 99.5 – Centra Software 20

Contigo i2i – Contigo Software 29

E-Learning-on-Tap – Hewlett Packard 37

HorizonLive 2.0 – HorizonLive.com 46

InterWise Millennium 3.0 – InterWise 52

LearningSpace 4.0 – Lotus Development 62

LearnLinc 4.5 – LearnLinc 69

Tier 2 – General Capabilities 77

Akamai Netpodium 2.1 – Akamai Technologies 78

LearningBias 2.0 – NetBias 84

MeetingPlace 2000 – Latitude Communications 90

MShow 2.45 – MShow.com 97

OnLive Audio Servers – Communities.com 101

PictureTalk Distance Training Server 3.0 – Pixion 106

PlaceWare Conference Center 2000 – PlaceWare 111

WebCore 1.02 – Caliber Learning Network 118

Tier 3 – Other Players 124

Astound Conference Center 2.0 – Astound 125

Embrace 3.6 – OutReach Technologies 130


NetMeeting 3.0– Microsoft 135

Prep Vision 3.0 – ComputerPrep 140

Part III 148

Appendix 149

Essential Technical Concepts for Understanding Live E-Learning Tools 149

The Matter of Bandwidth 156

Guidelines for Conducting a Live E-Learning Session 157

Other Products You May Have Heard Of 158

Background of Authors 161

Do Not Reproduce v1.0 © 2000 brandon-hall.com 1

Part I

Introduction

What You Will Find in This Report

What Is Live E-Learning

How Live E-Learning Is Being Used

Benefits and Limitations of This Technology

How to Select a Product That’s Right for You

Questions Customers Should Ask Vendors

Using RFPs to Your Advantage

The Best Live E-Learning Tools

2 Do Not Reproduce v1.0 © 2000 brandon-hall.com

Introduction

What You Will Find in This Report

This report is designed to help you understand the features and benefits of live e-Learning tools. With the knowledge contained in this summary, you should be able to make appropriate choices for your corporation’s training needs.

Live e-learning is a range of solutions wherein the client works with the training provider to find the best methods to bring about the expected outcomes for educational success. This success will be translated into employee retention as workers feel they are making a difference in the growth of the company. From there, a lot depends on how much of a “hands on” project you want this to be. Training vendors are capable of hosting the entire project from start to finish, and can also provide the appropriate software and aid you in bringing this training to your employees. We know that these are your decisions and that they will impact you for years to come. We have gathered these facts to help you make a more streamlined decision about your training needs.

The Internet has given us numerous capabilities that were unavailable 20 years ago. In the old days of training, you would gather a large group of employees from multiple locations into a single classroom in one location for training by an on-site lecturer. Many of your workers would undoubtedly have had to travel from one site to another to participate in this training. This would mean a loss of productivity and company revenue due to travel time and mileage reimbursement. A skeleton crew would have been left behind, unable to leave their workstations. Therefore the training session would need to be repeated on other days for the skeleton crew and any absentees—and the whole costly scenario would repeat. In a large corporation, the number of employees could potentially be huge. Now, with live e-learning solutions at our fingertips, it is easier to schedule everyone to attend these training sessions and to insure a higher percentage of success for your staff.

In later sections of this report, you will read how live e-learning sessions are being used to bolster employee knowledge and morale, each of which contributes to the creation of a loyal employee base. The use of e-mail to ask questions and live chat room Q&A capabilities help pave the way to success for participants. Of course, those who take full advantage of all that is being offered will reap the most rewards.

As with any program, there are benefits and limitations to this form of learning. The trick is to secure the benefits while molding the limitations to fit your needs. As discussed above, the obvious benefit of live e-learning is maintaining office efficiency while eliminating the need for travel. The fact that you will have a shorter span of development time is also a big plus. All of this will result in major cost savings for your company.

As you read through this report, you will be encouraged to consider your needs for scheduling and speed of delivery of your company’s training. It is important to note whether all participants will have the same computer equipment, modem size, and telephonic capabilities. Another significant consideration is your available audio and video conferencing connections and how they will deliver the required voice connection capabilities. A list of vendors and their products is presented in an easy-to-read format in the body of this report.

A list of concise terms and their definitions will guide you through the process of selecting the right training product for your organization. In the introductory section, you will have an extensive list of questions you should consider before signing a vendor’s contract. Do your homework and check out the leading contenders for your business. They should be more than willing to offer you reference and product history materials to help in your decision.


Cost is an obvious factor—you need to know how much you are willing to spend and what products are within your price range up-front. Questions to consider are: what are the overall costs for the chosen product, and how are they determined? We describe the steps to take in the buying process. Once you have gathered and analyzed all of this information and have determined what your company’s needs are, the next step is to prepare a Request for Proposal (RFP). The RFP will provide you with a more detailed picture of the products you are considering to assist in the decision-making process. We provide a sample RFP to give you an idea of how one of these should look. We also explain why the amount of information requested in the RFP should not be too large or too small.

The section on the Best Live E-Learning Tools is our evaluation of the top products in this category available on the market today. This list can serve as a starting point for your search. As you study this report, you may find that certain products we have reviewed are more suitable to your company’s needs than others and that you can eliminate those that do not successfully and/or completely meet your specific requirements. These are important links to your desired success in choosing the appropriate training vehicle.

In this report, companies and products in the online training market are divided into three categories, or tiers. These areas are: tools with instructional capabilities or that are offered by the best known training software companies; products that offer live online capabilities, but are not necessarily instructional in focus; and other players in the market that may be lesser known. With this information, you will have the relevant decision-making facts at your fingertips.

The appendix offers an extensive list of essential technical concepts to help you in understanding the live online learning process. Along with this, the guidelines listed for use in conducting live e-learning will be of great help once you have chosen your provider. Finally, background information is listed relating to both authors of this report.

What Is Live E-Learning

Live e-learning is the use of Internet technology to provide live or synchronous instruction from an instructor to a group of students.

Live e-learning is characterized by the following:

Uses the Web

Technically known as Internet Protocol, or IP Technology, this form of training uses the capabilities and standards of the Internet for delivering instructional concepts across the public Internet or via a company’s internal intranet. A Web browser is used as the basic delivery medium for the instructors, presenters, and students.

Instructional in Nature

The online training process conveys information to an audience that requires knowledge on the particular subject sought. The difference between instruction and a presentation is that the latter is typically one-way and flows from the instructor to the group. It is information download and similar to a lecture, although time for Q&A may also be available.

Expectations of Instruction

First, instruction is characterized by an implicit agreement that this avenue of training will provide instruction as opposed to information only as in a presentation. Second, there are specified or implicit objectives to be derived from participating in this instructional session.


Third, there is some form of assessment. Finally, there is the expectation that this information will be used back on the job.

Despite this, a lot of live e-learning is presentation-oriented just like a lot of classroom training is primarily lecture mode.

The Cold Hard Facts

The soul of live e-learning is the ability to convey the spirit and at least half of the characteristics of a live classroom session. There is a live instructor talking to you over the Internet (or via an audio bridge such as teleconferencing), and there are users interested in this information. Thus, you have the dynamics of a live presentation with the immediacy and the interactivity that characterizes a live classroom session.

How Live E-Learning Is Being Used

As a good example of how online training is being used, consider the case of Marty Weiss who chose to get his CCNA certification through Cisco Systems’ online CCNA certification course. As an up and coming training and computer manual writer and information technology specialist, Weiss already knew his way around training courses. His job with the government solution group at Affiliated Computer Services qualified him as an expert in his field. Although he generally viewed the quality of training courses with skepticism, he decided to travel this route for the certification process. For Weiss, history has shown that many of the online classes are unyielding in their presentation and instructional value. He always felt that most people would benefit just as well by buying a book on the subject.

Delivering JIT Training by Putting an Expert On the Air

Upon encountering the need for a course to satisfy his CCNA certification requirements, Weiss turned to Cisco Systems. This changed his entire outlook on online classes. He realized that he could take maximum advantage of this training opportunity by staying online after the sessions and having a one-on-one discussion with the instructors. With that awareness, he garnered an extra wealth of knowledge that propelled his comprehension far beyond his original expectations. Such interaction was not possible during the class time. He was able to ask questions using his keyboard and receive answers on his screen from someone at the training site. If the instructor decided that a question was relevant to everyone, he or she would draw attention to it and discuss it as part of the class. Weiss’ positive opinion of online training was reinforced when he passed the Cisco CCNA certification.

Using Scarce Resources Well

Impressed with Cisco’s three-hour, semi-weekly lesson timetable, Weiss began to realize that quality instruction and presentation details could be given in this format. The course lasted three weeks, and he was able to take his exam four days after concluding the KnowledgeNet classes. He also had access to a set of CD-ROM assignments between classes. Weiss could schedule his “homework” to occur when he had an otherwise free schedule. KnowledgeNet provided a 24-hour live chat room where students could put their heads together and come up with answers to puzzling queries. The idea was that if anyone got stuck, they could access this site and receive an answer in a short time. Weiss found this option quite helpful.

Collaborative Learning

KnowledgeNet Director of Operations Ted Hernandez says the company encourages heavy interaction from each student. The student should become totally involved with the training


during the time he or she is online. Instructors try to have a seemingly never-ending stream of prepared materials, interactive training sessions, and communication to hold the students’ interest. Student evaluations provide KnowledgeNet with useful and positive criticism. Students are asked how the training relates to what they had initially expected, how they expect it to meet the requirements they were seeking to meet, as well as to rate the overall effectiveness of the classes. KnowledgeNet uses this feedback to improve its service.

Weiss’ experience with the registration process is standard—once he paid for the course, the company sent him an e-mail with a password for him to use to access the class. When relating his experience in the CCNA certification courses he emphasized the use of two instructors who played off one another. One instructor had all the answers, while the other bounced complex questions off of him.

KnowledgeNet knows beforehand how many students will be accessing the class. It takes steps to ensure each student has proper support—probably better than in a live classroom. Beginning with the initial instructors, the staff size grows by one tech support engineer for every 10 students registered. When questions arise that are considered useful for everyone in the class, the answers are e-mailed to all the participants.

Brian Fraize, deputy director of IT for RGS Associates, sings the praises of live online classes. He notes that live online training offers the best in classroom teaching, such as interaction with the instructors and conversations with other students. General Networks Corporation’s systems engineer, Herb Meyerowitz, found that the teacher in a class he took tried to make certain everyone felt at ease. He used examples from the real world to illustrate needs that could arise later. Meyerowitz was certain that because he took this class, he had garnered information that would help his company for some time to come.

Record/Playback Capabilities

People tend to like the idea of live online training. However, it does present a problem for those who cannot tie themselves down to a particular date and time. Everyone has time constraints, and sometimes people are not able or willing to rearrange their schedules. For this reason, requests for online, rather than live, training is common.

The record/playback function is very useful when a student must reinforce important points of the production to better retain the information. This feature is also especially helpful when a student must miss only one (or a part of one) class. Through the record/playback function, the course content is not lost. Simply access the playback feature, listen to the presentation, work through the exercises, and you are back on track.

Benefits and Limitations of This Technology

The three main benefits of choosing live online training technology are: no need for travel, a shorter development cycle, and cost savings for your corporation. Each of these areas holds a great deal of importance in your decision-making process. Looking at these individually, we see a variety of benefits in each category.

No Need for Travel

� Updated availability of training mode for off-site personnel

� Instructors are not held by geographic boundaries

� More students can view the presentation simultaneously

With learning solutions found through live online training, your off-site personnel will not need to travel to a training site. They will simply access the training through their desktop computer. Business trips will no longer need to be rescheduled due to a conflict with a


three-hour training session. Look at the savings of not having to worry about the instructors’ travel expenses. The best instructors are in the most demand. No longer will you have to settle for your second choice simply because the best trainer was in another state doing the same presentation at the time your sessions were being held. They will be leading these training sessions. Another obvious gain is that innumerable students can reap the benefits of each live online training session simultaneously.

As noted below, another benefit of live e-learning is short development cycle, or decreased time spent in developing the product.

Short Development Cycle

� Faster delivery of appropriate training to applicable staff members

� Higher rates of student completion than found in self-paced training

� Better able to offer penetrating data for everyone in a reasonable time

� Content able to be modified continuously and accessed on demand

Once you have made the decision to purchase a particular training session, all you have to do is choose the staff members that are to benefit from it. The delivery is as simple as logging on to their computers when the training is in session. Upon developing this training, engineers realize that they must keep the students’ interest to insure they complete the course. You will find that the developers of online training use interaction capabilities to capture this continued interest. The concentrated timeframe allows all who are registered to thoroughly profit from the offerings during the initial presentation or the applicable exercises and tutorials. If a last minute addition becomes necessary or new products are introduced, these changes can be made to the training content immediately.

As noted below, the cost savings for your business are astounding:

Cost Savings for the Corporation

� Reduction of internal training costs

� Reduced time out of workplace for participants

� Students retain learned knowledge easier

� Assures optimum intercommunication and compilation of data

� No travel costs

� Flat fee gives unlimited access for one year

You will be pleasantly surprised to find a reduction in your training cost budget of up to 85 percent over previous years in which you chose classroom-style training. Some of the more obvious savings are found in eradicating travel expenses for employees to attend technical seminars in faraway places. The staff participating in online training sessions will be able to use a portion of the workday for normal activities, thus accomplishing the more important scheduled tasks. Students tend to retain this style of delivery better and can also access newly added data, refreshing their memory as needed. This decreases the need for more workshops scheduled as refresher courses. The interactive portion of live online training assures optimum results as your employees become part of the training environment they have entered. Training sessions come with the benefit of unlimited access for one year for a flat fee.

You will also note there are limitations relating to live online training. You should be able to tell quickly whether these hindrances relate to your particular situation. The major drawbacks to be considered are related to scheduling, bandwidth, and voice capabilities. Observe these areas carefully:


▪ Scheduling — A live e-learning session lends itself to ease of scheduling since you do not have to consider the problem of all participants having to travel to one specified location. However, you must note that it is more delayed and sometimes less advantageous than if your employees took an online course that was self-paced.

▪ Bandwidth — There is no guarantee that everyone will be working with the same modem speed. People in outlying areas and those who are accessing the training from home or a hotel room may be limited to a modem size slower than the requisite 56.6K needed for a smooth delivery of audio and video plus many high quality graphic details.

▪ Voice — Conference calls will need to supplement the system if the training computer uses voice over IP or if the student does not have access to audio enabling training computers. This is to ensure that the student has the best in sound quality to do justice to the overall training quality.

How to Select a Product That’s Right for You

When selecting the right training product for your needs, you should consider some of the more important points to aid in the decision-making process. Some of those items are outlined below.

Company

An enterprise that is going to be around for a while is much better to work with than one that is not. It is the nature of the business that software companies come and go. Consider how long the company has been in business and look at its financial strength. Even if it is private, information (as to funding sources) is readily available on the Internet. If the company is public, you can get information off the Internet at the Edgar Web site (http://www.sec.gov/edgarhp.htm). Here, information is posted from documents provided to the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Reference Accounts

Your potential vendor should be willing to provide you with information on organizations that are currently using its products and services. It would also be helpful to know to whom they give your contact information. How do they obtain knowledge regarding their use of the product? They should also be very receptive to answering any questions you may have.

Product History

How long has the product you are interested in been on the market? How many users do they have? How large is their installed base? How long has the current version been available? Remember that if it has been out too long, then it’s not keeping up with current technology. On the other hand, if it has only been in release for a short time then it might not be as reliable as a slightly older version. These are all things to take into consideration.

Product Features

To properly evaluate this, you will need to look at your business requirements. Some of the RFPs and questions that appear later in this report will help you identify your business requirements and the feature sets you need to meet those needs.

Cost

While cost is an obvious consideration, the previous issues need to be lined up in your favor in order to consider the cost. Other things being equal and feature sets being close, then I


certainly recommend you do a cost comparison based on what offers the best financial package for you.

Basis for Pricing

In addition to the overall cost for your situation, you have to consider the basis for pricing. Pricing based on concurrent users is much more flexible than the system that is priced based on named users. Pricing based on named users means you register a particular seat, and that seat is then taken. For “X” number of seats you have licensed, you have one less to offer to others. Pricing based on concurrent users means you do not have to register a particular user. You can have different people take seats available for a particular session. This offers a lot more flexibility. Of course, a price per concurrent user is significantly higher than the price per named user.

The Buying Process

Here are ten steps to go through when entering the buying process:

� Step 1 — Learn about the basic capabilities of a product in the live e-learning category, and determine whether or not it is worth pursuing given your business needs. In other words, are you getting many requests for live e-learning sessions? Do you view this simply as a way to meet the online learning needs of your audience?

� Step 2 — Get educated about live e-learning. This report is an excellent start. You will get some background information on the players in your section of interest as well as specific descriptions of the products. You will also receive recommendations on which ones to pursue and which ones to avoid.

� Step 3 — Talk to colleagues. Find out which products they are using, what their experiences are, how they have been using the different products, and any other applicable experiences.

� Step 4 — View several customer demos. You can do this at a trade show, on the Web, or with vendor presentations at your location. These should provide you with in-depth information about all the issues identified previously in this section.

� Step 5 — Compile a short list of three to six live e-learning vendors that may be able to meet your needs.

� Step 6 — The RFP. Send the RFP to the three to six vendors on your list. A smart thing to do is to send your RFP to the chosen vendors first, asking them to comment on it before you send it for their response. In other words, ask them if this process makes sense and if there are other things they think you should be asking given your needs.

� Step 7 — From the vendors who respond, choose the top two or three to meet for the final presentation to your buying group.

� Step 8 — Identify the one or two vendors with whom you are interested in doing business.

� Step 9 — Have your IT department do a thorough screening of the tools you have chosen on your network. This is a critical step to make sure that what the vendors are proposing will actually work on your system. (A pilot program will help here if at all possible.) Anyone who buys a product prior to extensive testing by his or her IT department is being very foolish.

� Step 10 — Make your final selection, and sign a contract. All you have to do now is get started and let the fun begin.


Questions Customers Should Ask Vendors

In this section, we have gathered a group of questions everyone should bear in mind when anticipating such a major purchase. These may not all fit into your situation, but many of them will. Peruse the list, and select the ones that speak to your situation. You will probably think of other questions as you get further into the selection process.

If possible, consider your expected training situation from start to finish and draw upon thoughts that come to mind during the information gathering process. As you ponder each aspect of your training needs, you will begin to think of your system’s compatibility and firewalls, probable scaling needs, record and playback when needed, and many new ways you will be able to benefit from this training vehicle.

We have broken the suggested questions into three areas: delivery/facilitation, registration management, and integration.

Delivery/facilitation

� Can the e-learning tool be extended or customized if the need arises?

� Does the tool depend on streaming technology or use phone-based conferencing?

� How do you rank your solutions based on Internet protocols versus non-Internet protocols such as those in H.323 or T.120?

� Could you explain the process of how the audience will be able to interactively participate?

� For collaboration support purposes, can students access applications available on the instructor’s desktop?

� How does the availability of archiving for playback work?

� Relating to scalability, how many users can be online at one time?

� Do we need to install plug-ins on all client computers to operate this software at its maximum potential?

� How dependable is the training product you are considering?

� How good is the learning model, and what references can you give pertaining to it?

� How long do you estimate it will take before the first class is ready?

� Can we start with a hosted solution and move to an internal server later, if desired?

� Do you offer one button archiving?

� Do you offer “dress rehearsal” capability for one-time events?

� What is your security approach, and is the data encrypted?

� Can files be uploaded and held for our future use?

� Can you describe the learning experiences your users have mentioned?

� Is the audio full-duplex (two-way) or half-duplex (where one person must stop talking before the next person begins speaking)?

� Is the data in a room continuous?

� Will this content be accessible to attendees outside the company’s firewall—for example, can a student call in to the session from home and connect to the meeting?

� Will the client be able to retain full functionality when crossing firewalls to connect to a meeting?


� If voice is furnished through a third party, what is the cost, and how is it synchronized with data?

� Will we be able to record classes and meetings for later playback?

� Does your corporation have a voice over IP system?

� How many meetings or training sessions operate within a company on the average?

� How meaningful is customization for the circumstances?

� Is full-duplex voice important for a high-caliber experience?

� Is the training experience state-of-the-art or simply a new TV mode?

� What is the rich media approach of the partner?

� Which type of post presentation reporting tools are offered?

� How complicated is the setup, and how do we deal with problems or delays that arise?

� How quickly will the attendee be able to join the presentation?

� How user-friendly would you consider the training software?

� Can this solution automatically gather vital data on client behavior and buying potential?

� How would you describe the product’s reporting mechanism?

Registration management

� How easy will it be for us to deploy, manage, and update this product?

� How much does this product (including any extra fees) cost after considering our requirements?

� What, if any, value added services/tools (registration, PPV) are available?

� Is any additional software necessary for the end users?

� Will the training software be housed with us or on your server?

� Is this product scalable?

� Will I be able to customize this product?

� How can we be certain that only those who have been invited can access the meeting?

� What logistical and technical support can we expect as the day of the event approaches?

� Will I be able to demonstrate software in the system?

� Will we be able to place our own name (as private branding) on the product?

� What are your plans for developing future releases?

� Can this product be used for other functions?

� Do you offer online technical support where a live person will provide answers for any class we specify?

� Once it is readied, how will our system be supported?

� Will you be able to offer a pilot program so that we may test your software under our conditions?

� How many of your customers purchase further license authorizations or new products from you after their first placement?

� How many people has your instruction department trained using your own product?

� Is your company financially stable?

� Who are your dominant partners?


Integration

� Does the training tool provide a complete broadcast synopsis?

� How do firewall operation issues resolve themselves if communication occurs with those outside our company firewall, i.e., clients, associates, prospects, and other business acquaintances?

� How well does your technology combine with other software in a corporate environment such as ours?

� Is the training tool truly interactive; if not, how is interaction a problem?

� Do we need event management services to help with event/training sessions, or will we be able to manage these things in-house?

� How reliable is the solution you are offering?

� Looking at our corporate network, how well do you think we can support bandwidth requirements?

� Will we need high impact multimedia support?

� Is the solution amenable to changes?

� Is the tool a truly integrated mixed-media solution and, if so, how?

� What are the advantages of the truly integrated mixed-media solution?

� What process do you use to evaluate effective training and communications?

� How does your client pass across a socks or Web proxy firewall to connect to a meeting?

� How will firewalls affect this software, and can I bypass them?

� Are UNIX clients supported?

� Can coexistent and stand-alone events be integrated and, if so, how?

� Can you discuss the compatibility you offer with our IT infrastructure and tracking systems?

� Can the system be scaled to accommodate our entire organization?

� Do you successfully support all standards such as the T.120 and H.323

� How does your product handle coexistent courses? If you support these, can we use the same server, or does your licensing require it be separate?

� Will voice be plugged in to the existing PSTN network?

� Does your training product work with other calendaring combinations?

� How do you plan to handle moderation?

� How well does your product operate within a 28.8 dialup connection?

� Does your product support complicated network arrangements such as network address interpretation?

� Is this product Java-based? Is it compatible with most operating systems?

� Will this product support both Oracle and SQL7 databases?

� Are the administration tools flexible?

� Does this product operate in real-time or with streaming solutions?

� If the application is browser-based, through what browsers can you deploy application, and what is the lowest version of each browser that can be used?

� Is this product platform-independent to guarantee access?


� Will we be able to easily integrate this program with our existing sales, marketing, and business applications?

Using RFPs to Your Advantage

RFPs (Request for Proposals) are an effective way to obtain specific information from your vendors. The RFP does a couple of things. First, it forces you to identify simply what your requirements are. Next, it forces the vendors to state in writing to what extent they can meet your business requirements. Below, you will find a mock RFP that has been assembled for your consideration. Use it as a starting point—not as a final document.

Just so you will know, some vendors hate RFPs while others like them. Some vendors choose not to respond to an RFP. The issue for the vendors is that the RFP requires they make a tailored or customized proposal that is responsive to your RFP. That requires a lot of extra work on their part and means dedicated time from someone in their organization. Some organizations just do not have enough staff to do this continually. From the vendor’s standpoint, it is far too easy for a potential customer to send out an RFP to too many vendors or to have an RFP that is too extensive or complex. Often the RFP requires a response in a timeframe that is too short for the vendor. Also, it is unwise to use the RFP process as a way to get educated about the category.

Request for Proposal (RFP) Example

Requirements

Setup and Administrative Areas

Describe the capabilities of your software.

How is the registration of participants accomplished?

What is your process of polling attendees?

Which security features are presented?

Which survey mechanisms are in place?

Will concurrent events be needed?

How will the instructor control audio/microphone capabilities?

Is delivery accomplished through a browser?

How many concurrent users will you be able to accommodate with this method of delivery?

What reports will be generated?

May we add content after the presentation has begun?

What data, if any, is stored in a database?

Describe your password/restriction process.

Describe your pricing structure. Please include other consulting services you offer as well.

Audio and Data Conferencing Capabilities

Describe your audio capabilities (half-, full-duplex).


Requirements

Describe the procedure for running a live event.

What are the server requirements? Client requirements?

Which software will be needed, and what is the source? Describe restrictions/dependencies.

Will you be the hosting source? What other options do you offer? Please describe.

Describe firewall restrictions.

What type of support is offered for content providers? On the day of the event?

Describe the content loading process.

How are modifications made to the content?

What can be added as content (e.g. importing PowerPoint slides)?

What are the instructor’s capabilities?

What are the student’s capabilities?

Describe your chat operations/offerings.

Describe the areas of collaboration you offer (e.g., whiteboard).

Are there any restrictions for students who must use remote access?

Integrated Audio and Data Conferencing Solution

Please explain the integration process.

How are attendees invited? How will they be notified? How do they confirm/deny?

How will meeting materials/attachments be delivered?

Is the live audio synchronized to the visual data?

Which (if any) plug-ins are necessary for this presentation?

Video Conferencing

How will the content be delivered(download, streamed, or CD)?

What are the modem requirements on the client side?

What are the client requirements to access the training session?

Is record/playback available? If so, who can access? Is it available on demand?

How are the recorded sessions accessed?

What are the real-time features you offer?

Can this presentation run on a company’s LAN?

What is your necessary timeline for rollout of the training session?

What kind of end-user training will you provide?

Will there be a dedicated support person available the day of the event?


Requirements

Are remote diagnostics available?

How will the content be delivered? (download, streamed, or CD)

What are the modem requirements on the client side?

What are the client requirements to access the training session?

Is record/playback available? If so, who can access? Is it available on demand?

How are the recorded sessions accessed?

What are the real-time features you offer?

Can this presentation run on a company’s LAN?

What is your necessary timeline for rollout of the training session?

What kind of end-user training will you provide?

Will there be a dedicated support person available the day of the event?

Are remote diagnostics available?

Other

Please describe anything you feel is pertinent and not covered above.

The Best Live E-Learning Tools

While it is not an easy task to identify a handful of outstanding vendors in an area where there is so much talent, we are going to give it a good try. We want you to benefit as much as possible from every aspect of this report, so we have compiled a list of vendor qualifications for which you should look.

The categories we used are Strongest in the Virtual Classroom Market, Best Live E-Learning System, Best Value Overall, Quickest Solution, Least Expensive, Best Multiplatform Support, and Best Solution for the Sales Organization. From this list, we have chosen those that stand out above the rest in features and benefits and have given the reasons for those choices. We have broken down the capabilities you will be interested in relating to the major players in online training. Our research has enabled us to find companies and products that best fit the needs of those searching for online training solutions.

We will help to clarify the differences in the delivery of various types of sessions. For example, some are proficient in reaching students from either the Internet or a dedicated intranet. Other features to consider include the extent of conferencing and interactive capabilities and the number of employees that can access the training at once. A reliable package will have a wealth of tools in order to accomplish working with a good number of timetables simultaneously. It is also important to understand how focused the training provider is on online learning. The more focused the provider is on online training, the better.

The software we have reviewed strives to offer the best tools available in the presentation of quality, state-of-the-art online training. With so much intensity being dedicated to these programs and considering the fast-moving environment of online training vehicles, there is


an obvious need for clarification. It is imperative that customers receive comprehensive, up-to-date explanations of these products and what is to be expected upon purchase. This report will help you select a product that fits your needs. After analyzing their strengths and weaknesses, you should have a good basis for making this decision. In addition, you will be able to see which products offer extras and which are bare-bones choices.

Categories for Evaluation

▪ Strongest in the Virtual Classroom Market

▪ Best Live E-Learning System

▪ Best Value Overall

▪ Quickest Solution

▪ Least Expensive

▪ Best Multiplatform Support

▪ Best Solution for the Sales Organization


Part II

The Companies and Products

(Alphabetical by Company Name)

Tier 1 – Instructional Capabilities

Tier 2 – General Capabilities

Tier 3 – Other Live E-Learning Tools


The Companies and Products

The Tiers

In the following sections we have broken down the capabilities you will be interested in relating to the major players in online training. The tiers below will show a list of qualities and how they will benefit your organization. In Tier 1, you will find a discussion of instructional capabilities and how they link to your issues. Compare the learning tools, ease of use, and functionality that is offered by each. With the documentation offered in this report, you will be able to compare the live collaborative learning space and robust educational tools of Centra with the ease of use and fully integrated record and playback functionality of Contigo. You will see how the full functionality and growing globalization of E-Learning-on-Tap (ELoT) helps keep their reputation in full force and why Horizon 2.0 touts its LiveApp and whiteboarding features so heavily. It will be very clear why special features such as InterWise Millennium 3.0’s instant self-study modules, LearningSpace Collaborate’s easy synchronous or asynchronous operation, or LearnLinc’s ability to be firewall friendly are viewed as major features of these products.

Tier 2 shows general capabilities of products on the market that could meet your needs but do not have specific training capabilities. While these are worthy of consideration, you must weigh the benefits against the fact that some specific training capabilities are not available. Each of these products has many attributes that are useful to those with varied training needs. MeetingPlace offers several options enabling integration with other essential connection tools. MShow enables a company to exchange information with customers via the Internet. NetMeeting helps develop communication and presentation skills while facilitating real-time data collaboration. Akamai Netpodium makes a large audience feel they are getting the personal attention of a one-on-one discussion. Communities’ collaboration tools ease the process for Web page tours, online assessments, and conferencing. Pixion easily guides people through live Internet presentations. PlaceWare is a Web-conferencing tool used to conduct live interactive meetings. WebCore is an education and training solution for administering large-scale presentations.

Tier 3 presents a list of other players in the game whose products are not as well known or are not as feature-rich as the products in Tier 1 or Tier 2. Those in question are: Astound Conference Center 2.0, Embrace 3.6 by OutReach Technologies, NetMeeting by Microsoft, and Prep Vision 3.0 by ComputerPrep. We have discussed the main characteristics of each for your use in decision-making. Astound provides Web conferencing using your browser. Embrace allows companies to make use of their existing network and connections while Prep Vision is used for virtual classrooms and help desk support.

User Reviews

While we were unable to secure user reviews for all of the products listed, we have gathered some thought provoking information relating to the everyday usage of many of these products. Most users agree that for optimum success, the training software must be publicly available and inexpensive. It is very important that it run on PCs under Windows with minimal support requirements. The programs need to be accessible over both the Internet and through company intranets. Most people feel that when you compare off-site program set up costs with the added inconvenience of losing a full day’s productivity from the attendees, there really is no choice to be made other than live online training.

Most companies we talked with cited having a co-facilitator present as imperative. They say it is a good idea for two reasons. First, one person can answer questions, handle problems from listeners, and attend to other necessary tasks. If the primary presenter has a problem


with his or her computer, the second computer can quickly be shifted to the co-facilitator. At this point, the problems with the first computer can be corrected, allowing for seamless presentations. Desired benefits of most clients include:

� Increased productivity

� Efficient use of time

� Elimination of schedule conflicts

� Decreased travel costs

� User-instructor interaction

� Universal availability

� Real-time operation

The main theme in discussions with organizations regarding their live online training solution choices is that one product will not do the entire job. An example is that many organizations use Centra, InterWise, PlaceWare, and NetMeeting all for storyboard preparations. Kat Barclay of Strategic Visions International in Holualoa, Hawaii, says that her company uses storyboards developed in PowerPoint before uploading to LOL tool. In explaining the ease of use and instructional capacity: “Most are easy to work with, a couple are difficult to follow directions, but once figured out, work fine.” These are prepared in PowerPoint and uploaded to the appropriate live online training tool.

The consensus is that people need to get accustomed to the technology and realize how the application works, most importantly the instructor. Instructors should not only know how to control the application, they need to be able to keep the content going, track participants, and deal with any technical issues that pop up unexpectedly. Having a co-instructor is wonderful and takes some of the stress off of the main instructor. However, problems can arise if you have not worked together previously or even on the current project.

Most programs have been found to offer pretty much the same options although some variation occurs in the area of possible student control. Options such as drawing, pointing, and typing often only the instructor can access. The more an instructor can turn things over to the participants to keep them involved, the better.


Tier 1 – Instructional Capabilities

The tools discussed in this category are those that provide live Web conferencing and have components designed specifically for instruction. These includes elements such as assessments, integration with the learning management system, scorekeeping, registration available through learning management system, integration with other online learning tools, etc. Instruction is the main focus here, and these sellers have carved a primary niche for themselves in the e-learning marketplace. The vendors discussed here offer specific attributes unique to their products. They are all trying to offer you the best solution for your training requirements. Consider your needs for collaboration, integrated functionality, use of whiteboarding, and compatibility with your bandwidth and firewall.

� Centra Symposium 99.5

� Contigo i2i

� E-Learning-on-Tap

� HorizonLive 2.0

� InterWise Millennium 3.0

� LearningSpace 4.0

� LearnLinc 4.5


Centra Symposium 99.5 – Centra Software

Year First Released 1995

Number of Full Implementations

235

Centra has the oldest Live E-Learning product on the market since 1995, and they offer three related solutions:

� Centra Symposium

� Centra Conference

� CentraNow

Each of these solutions can be purchased outright, so organizations can run live training events on the Internet or their own intranet. These solutions are also available as "rented" or hosted solutions for organizations unwilling to maintain the software.

Centra Symposium is the flagship product that offers a robust virtual classroom experience for groups of 10-15 participants. This product offers testing, registration, class management, application sharing, and many other tools for delivering a robust classroom experience. It also delivers two-way audio, graphics, application sharing, and whiteboards using the IP protocol.

Centra Conference is a product designed for delivering Internet events reaching an unlimited number of viewers. This presentation medium delivers audio, graphics, application sharing and whiteboards in a one-way format, allowing a single presenter to reach a mass audience.

CentraNow is an online meeting application that enables small groups to work in a collaborative environment. Using this tool, small groups are able to talk, application share, use whiteboards, and surf the Web using the Internet. This is ideal for end-users who have a single phone line and cannot avail themselves of combination technologies that require a telephone conference call and an Internet connection.

Centra provides a deep, fully functional and technically elegant synchronous learning solution. They are serious about real-time online learning, events, demos, application sharing, and conferences; this is evidenced in their interface, tools, and technical infrastructure. Their solutions offer live online learning and event opportunities for groups from 2 to 2,000 with ease of use and reliability. Centra is ideal for technical organizations that have demanding new product introductions, customer education, and service organizations that need training delivered just in time.

It is especially well suited for international organizations that do not want the added expense of conference calls. Centra was the first company to market voice over IP at dial-up Internet bandwidths. Symposium allows interactive live online training presentations with voice interaction through an Internet connection. In addition, it now offers a digital replay characteristic that allows formerly held Centra events to be replayed with extreme clarity and audio. Centra is a winner of the Crossroads A-List Award for "Excellence in Execution in the Changing Business Landscape."


Centra’s focus here is on education and business users. They are centered on live online learning and offer a long list of training tools. With industry training accounting for the bulk of their business, Centra avoids the academic terminology so often found in training areas. Allowing companies to set up a virtual classroom using their online training package, Symposium, Centra is confident that they have come to the rescue of many clients who need guidance in their choice of online training packages. This Lexington, Massachusetts-based online training organization allows a company with a scattered employee substructure to bring training to their employees in an easier fashion. Once the users’ computers have Symphony loaded, they are ready to access the training and communication aspects of this software.

Centra 99 comes with a strong, well-developed set of tools to manage multiple curriculums, student records, and e-commerce. Ever busy in their production, Centra has a list of new enhancements they are making available in Centra 99.5:

� The product is integrated and firewall-friendly with live video, enabling users to see the session leader from within Centra 99’s Symposium interface.

� Full-duplex audio capabilities allow several people to talk to each other simultaneously while still online. This experience is similar to that available with telephone conferencing.

� There is improved scalability, and improved user management tools are able to support tens of thousands of users.

� The new, user-friendlier database design allows capture and reporting of custom data fields so that companies can collect the information for self-management.

� Record and playback capabilities now track the usage of recorded information for reporting or e-commerce transactions.

� Helpful automated password reminder function

� Performs well on a 28.8 modem

� Enables multiple servers to be directed from a single point

� Multiple presenters/facilitators are supported.

This live Internet collaboration system combines Centra Symposium and Centra Conference. Symposium features include highly evolved, multi-way audio conferencing, interactive Body Language, whiteboard, and breakout rooms and labs. It is capable of supporting up to 250 concurrent users per live, structured event environment.

Centra is focused on synchronous learning; thus, the operation of asynchronous programs is relatively easy. The instructor has the ability to stop a CBT or shut off IRC/e-forums before resuming class. Class management tools include instructor control of the microphone, spur of the moment assignment of students to breakout or team rooms, and the ability to dynamically promote a user to co-presenter. The audio record, however, leaves something to be desired as no editing occurs to remove dead time, bad questions, or speaker problems. Additional client software is needed for the Internet-based audio portion. The Agenda Builder provides continuity for the content that is imported into an unrehearsed Symposium and Conference event. Server requirements are Windows NT 4.0, 2000; Pentium 300 MHz; 128 MB RAM. Client requirements are Windows 95, 98, NT 4.0, 2000; Pentium 100 MHz; 32 MB RAM; and the availability of speakers and microphone. This product does not support Macintosh or UNIX.

Customers drawn to Centra are generally large high-tech manufacturers, financial services firms, and retail operations with large numbers of mobile workers. Collaborative abilities include ad hoc meetings, one-on-one marketing sessions, and interactive training sessions. Clients have access to a variety of benefits when purchasing this software, including conferencing system, online chat, student progress tracking, auto-marked quizzes, electronic


mail, and course syllabi. Available interactions include raised hand, class pace feedback, student-to-teacher messaging, and teacher-to-student messaging. Course content can be downloaded prior to class, streamed at time of presentation, or pulled from a CD-ROM shipped with the software. However, there appears to be a steep learning curve for those not proficient in live online training packages.

Symposium is globally strong, offering capabilities in Japanese, French, Spanish, German, and Portuguese languages. While there have been 250 concurrent users, the largest implementation of seats available to this point are 12,000.. An API toolkit is available, and the integration with Microsoft Outlook and Exchange is excellent.

With the annual maintenance agreement, you will gain right of entry to software maintenance, enhancement, and functional releases along with telephone and Web-based technical support. In addition, they sponsor an annual user conference. Pricing is based on the number of servers. Hosting options require independent Centra 99 software licensing and maintenance support packages. The Centra 99 server is hosted on a server platform used only for this product. Startup pricing for the extended dedicated server hosting service is $12,200 or $5,500 per month for a seven-month contract. Each concurrent user will add an additional $2,000, while each named user will add $200. Other pricing structures are available.

Education and training programs are always accessible to aid curriculum and content developers, instructional designers, presenters, and system administrators. These include: Centra-delivered sessions on pertinent topics, instructor-led classroom training, education consulting, and professional certification programs. Centra strives to instill a collaborative sense in everyone taking the training. Students are able to immediately access audio conferencing, PowerPoint presentations, AVI video files, and application sharing. Motivators for choosing online training with Centra have been cited as cost-savings and time expediency. Other positive feedback from clients include the experience of fast results, remote access for field staff, and Centra’s understanding of the needs of a major business organization. Realizing that today the emphasis is on disseminating timely information and training to an organization’s remote workforce, Centra has stepped to the forefront in its field, enabling the client to offer its staff the latest in training options.

User Reviews

Often voted number one as the premier software choice for live online training solutions, Centra is always looking to add new interactive capabilities. Centra competes with and integrates into its solutions other good products such as PlaceWare Conference, Lotus’ LearningSpace and InterWise Millennium. Demand is said to be strong in the area of product training. Centra helps organizations to achieve successful distance learning operations for getting employees trained as needed. Centra has been a major asset to organizations specializing in using accelerated learning techniques with distance delivery media.

Centra has often been chosen for its real-time, collaborative environment that offers both voice and graphics. Symposium is an exciting software choice that meets all of the major requirements for real-time, interactive training. One major corporation notes that the breadth of tools offered by Symposium is outstanding. Hand raise and the question/answer ability are the best offered. Others voiced that the shared whiteboard feature is the most important. These tools provide instructors with structure needed to keep a classroom organized. Group discussions facilitated by the integrated multi-way audio conferencing system also have proven effective in the class.


Product Features

Features Description

Product Model � Centra Symposium is Centra’s live collaborative learning space with robust learning tools. Audio is Internet-based and client software is needed.

� Centra Conference is a tool for live Internet events with an unlimited number of viewers. Audio is delivered via conference call, and no client software is needed.

� Centra Agenda Builder is used to sequence and import content into a live Symposium and Conference event.

� CentraNow: A network service that provides live, voice-enabled business interaction on the Web

Year of Current Release 2000

Primary Markets 50% Training

40% Sales and Marketing

10% Other

Features for Learners � Interactions:

– Raise hand

– Feedback on pace of class

– Send text message to teacher

– Send text message to other students

� Course Content:

– Downloaded prior to class

– Streamed at time of class

– Called from a disk or CD-ROM shipped in advance of class

� Can live class be recorded for later viewing?

– Yes, entire class can be recorded

– Facilitator responsible for recording class

� Which types of files can be imported?

– Anything that is HTML friendly

Features for Facilitators/Instructors

� Can program be co-facilitated from two separate locations?

– Yes, multiple presenters/facilitators are supported.

� Tools available to facilitator on-the-fly:

– Polling

– Whiteboard

– Application sharing

– Ability to lead the class in Web surfing

– Launch a CBT

– Stop a CBT and resume class

– Can shut off IRC/e-forums during class



� Class management tools available:

– Microphone control (assign or remove mic from student)

– Assign students to breakout or team rooms on-the-fly

– Dynamically promote user to co-presenter/facilitator

� Can facilitator preview next piece of content in-session?

– No

Features for Course Developers

� Can content creation be done in the program?

– Yes

� Which types of files can be imported for use in interactive live class?

– PowerPoint

– Word

– Excel

– HTML

– AVI

– GIF

– JPEG

– RAM

– ASF

� How are revisions made to the course?

– On-the-fly PowerPoint import

– Agenda Builder content creation

– Sequencing tool

� Templates offered:

– Product rollout template

– Application deployment template

– Virtual sales meeting template

Features for Course Administrators/Registrars

� Can multiple servers running your application be administered as if they were a single system?

– Yes

� Can the administrator register groups of learners?

– Yes

� Does the system include a report generator?

– Yes

� Does the system include test/assessment creation and data storage?

� Reports included:

– Course enrollment

– Test scores for a given class

– Attendance/absentee reports

� Databases supported:

– Oracle

– Cloudscape (bundled with the system)



� E-commerce capability:

– API toolkit

� Administrator can:

– Send e-mail to groups (facilitators or students) from within product during class session

– Set prerequisites

– Limit class size

– Assign instructors

– Post and delete classes

Information Systems

Administration

� Tools provided for testing audio:

– Audio Wizard

� Does installation require IS support?

– No

Audio Features � Delivered over Internet/intranet

� Full-duplex

� Proprietary protocols

� POTS – Plain Old Telephone System or Services

Collaboration Features � Whiteboard

� Application sharing (one-to-many and many-to-many)

� Ability to lead class in Web surfing

� Virtual breakout rooms

� Polling

� Quizzing

� Full-motion video (pre-recorded)

� Full-motion video real-time video (one-to-many and many-to-many)

� Threaded discussion/e-forum

� Course authoring tools for creating pages

� Internet Relay chat (IRC)

� Record and Playback

Interface Can Be

Customized

Yes

Plug-in, Player, or Software Other Than Browser

Required

Symposium requires plug-ins; Conference does not.

Current Capabilities for

Working with Third Party Products

� API toolkit available

� Full integration with several Learning Management Systems vendors

� E-commerce front-end on CentraNow.com

� Enterprise e-commerce available via API toolkit

� Microsoft Outlook and Exchange integration



Server Requirements � Windows NT 4.0, 2000

� Pentium 300 MHz

� 128 MB RAM

Client Requirements � Win 95, 98, NT 4.0, 2000

� Pentium 100 MHz

� 32 MB RAM

� Speakers and microphone

Macintosh Supported No

UNIX Supported No

Global Capabilities � Japanese

� French

� Spanish

� German

� Portuguese

Largest Full

Implementation to Date

12,000 seats

Stress Testing: Largest number of concurrent

users in a test environment

250 Symposium

1,000 Conference

Recommended Class Size 10–25 participants

Service Offerings � Education and training programs to assist curriculum developers, content developers, instructional designers, instructors, system administrators, and other business professionals in their use of Centra's products and online services. Centra Education and Training Services include:

– Centra-delivered sessions

– Instructor-led classroom training

– Education consulting

– Professional certification programs

� Centra-delivered courses on designing sessions, creating content, converting existing content, using Centra Agenda Builder, best practices for presenters and leaders on holding effective online meetings, among other topics

Product Support � An annual Centra Maintenance Agreement provides access to:

– Software maintenance releases

– Enhancement releases (point releases)

– Functional releases (major releases)

– Telephone technical support

– Web-based technical support

– Centra's Knowledgebase

– Up-to-date technical information

� Priority Support Programs include expanded support hours, end-user support, priority resolution, and early product notifications.



� Centra sponsors a worldwide User Conference each year and regional user group meetings.

Three Major Strengths 1. A single platform for delivering collaboration and e-learning initiatives including training, live presentations, and ad hoc meetings on the Web

2. An architecture that includes a scalable back-end management and performance system

3. Rich API’s for integration into best-of-breed, third party systems, including LMS vendors, system integrators, and e-commerce engines

Financial Status of Firm Public (Nasdaq:CTRA)

Pricing

Basis of Pricing

� Pricing is based on number of servers, with both concurrent and named user pricing available.

� Hosting options require separate Centra 99 software licensing and maintenance/support.

� Centra hosts a Centra 99 server on a dedicated server platform.

Pricing Scenarios

SCENARIO 1 – Hosting SCENARIO 2 – Small

Number of Seats

SCENARIO 3 – Enterprise

License

Price for 100 users in a hosted system

Price for 100 users Price for 1,000 concurrent

or named users

� Extended Dedicated Server Hosting Service:

– $12,000 Start-up, plus $5,500/Month

– Contract length is minimum 7 months

– Payment due upfront or quarterly

� $2,000 per concurrent User

� $200 per named User

� Same as Scenario 1


SCENARIO 1 – Hosting SCENARIO 2 – Small

Number of Seats


License



or named users

� Short-Term Dedicated Server Hosting Service:

– $12,000 to start up, plus $6,000/Month

– Contract length is up to 6 months

– For any configuration with 50 or fewer simultaneously logged in users

– Payment due up front

� Extended Shared Server Hosting Service:


– Contract length is minimum 7 months

– Payment due upfront or quarterly

� Short-Term Shared Server Hosting Service:


– Contract length is up to 6 months

– For any configuration with 50 or fewer simultaneously logged in users

� Payment due up front

Contact Info

Centra Software, Inc.

430 Bedford Street Lexington, MA 02420 781.861.7000 tel 781.863.7288 fax [email protected] www.centra.com


Contigo i2i – Contigo Software



1,000+ service solutions

Contigo is a tool which is designed for meetings and general Web conferencing. It has gained visibility in the training community by appearing at different training conferences and aggressively marketing to the training professional. Contigo’s instant messaging application supports voice-messaging, chat, file transfer, and Web touring made a hit in 1999. Their best products remain in the area of Internet conferencing supporting live online training, Web touring, presentation sharing, interactive chat, and whiteboarding. Contigo’s i2i product line includes integrated encryption and certification and can support from 10 to 1,500 concurrent users. The basic meeting version comes with a 10-user license, while the seminar version adds seminar management and lead-tracking features and begins with a 50-user license. Their platforms are written in Java and operate on Windows NT, Sun Solaris, and Linux platforms.

Contigo clients Oracle, Hewlett-Packard, Charles Schwab, and Compaq rely on Contigo solutions not only to provide live online training, but also to expand market reach, train key staff, and communicate to their investors. The i2i software pledges to make more effective use of your company's presentation and travel budgets while broadening your reach. With tight timeframes and widely separated work teams, transfer of the latest knowledge is a critical step to the continued success of enterprises. Contigo is accessing the benefits of collaboration through the Internet to accomplish success for its clients.

In the best interest of the client, Contigo has created solutions that are easy to use, load, and manage. Contigo assures clients that they will simplify the process of online learning quickly and make it cost-effective. Contigo’s Software is a 100 percent Java Internet conferencing platform offering scalability, reliability, and security. It will run on any platform including Windows NT and UNIX-based servers. They incorporate vigorous, fully integrated record and playback serviceability. The promise that this product is easy to use is not taken lightly. Non-technical users can devise all manner of virtual learning conference events as easily as perusing the Web for fun. Concurrent user capacity is at 700 concurrent users on Macintosh and Windows NT with up to 2,500 concurrent users on UNIX systems such as Solaris.

Contigo’s best products include:

� Contigo Meeting — creates on-demand interactive meetings and demonstrations. Three years in the making, Contigo Meeting offers simple execution and powerful performance capabilities for e-conferencing.

� Contigo Meeting Pro — offers the best in security and flexibility when allowing round-the-clock playback ability, thus increasing your live online training choices

� Contigo Seminar — offers the rich assistance you expect to find in e-conferencing along with a powerful lead generation system; In addition, you will enjoy the added function of smooth activity reporting and accurate departmental charge backs.

� Contigo Enterprise — allows you to blend the capabilities of the i2i e-conferencing platform instantly into your business conformity; The virtual host architecture allows you to concurrently accommodate many events using any Contigo i2i product interface and set of characteristics.


You will be able to choose from a hosted software solution or in-house installation. Benefits of the hosted service include: unlimited bandwidth, immediate license upgrades and software updates, no need for hardware maintenance or IT involvement, event logistics management, and tighter security support for content sensitive sessions. Instructors will be able to integrate collaboration without losing focused concentration on the content they are presenting. To make the most of an online learning session, the instructor makes the best use of polling. He or she can easily pose questions and collect and compile attendee responses. Data is captured synchronously during live online learning sessions and asynchronously during an event playback. Pre-registration and entry passwords maintain privacy for pre-qualified audience. Important data is captured for lead generation, customer and prospect comments to surveys, and market/audience analysis. Sessions can be recorded for later playback at any time without the need for additional downloads. Users can capitalize on Web content by conducting real-time Web tours during a live online learning session. For confidentiality issues, Contigo secure HTTPs connection ensures that all sessions are secure. Not only is password protection offered, but Contigo’s solutions integrate RSA’s BSAFE SSL-J encryption as well. With Contigo Enterprise, you can integrate the full capabilities of the E Conferencing platform with your current industry representation.

Interactions include feedback on pace of the class, student-to-teacher messaging, teacher-to-student messaging, and student-to-student messaging. Course content can be downloaded prior to class or streamed at the time of the presentation. The facilitator or the system manager controls class recordings. The program can be co-facilitated from another location, although it may be better for the instructor to dynamically appoint multiple course instructors, thus enabling multi-site instructors to share equal control of the class.

Instant availability of tools for the facilitator include: polling, whiteboard, application sharing and viewing, and the ability to lead the class in Web surfing. The opportunity to assign students to breakout or team rooms on-the-fly is also a good option. The enterprise edition of i2i allows instructors to initiate up to 20 simultaneous breakout meeting sessions. Instructors like the attendee management controls, which give them the opportunity to adjust the level of each student’s collaboration. Moreover, the facilitator is able to present a more streamlined presentation with preview abilities of the next portion of content in each session. Multiple servers may run in unison since complete control is perpetuated through one central Web management console. Through the i2i’s event posting capabilities, groups of learners may be registered by storing all registrant information in the SQL database. A report generator will keep instructors advised of course enrollment and student record numbers.

The server requirements are:

� Pentium III 550 MHz+ or equivalent

� Windows NT 4.0 Server with Service Pack 4 (SP4) or above

� Any UNIX OS w/Java Virtual Machine 1.1.6 with native threads recommended

� Less than 10 MB disk space

Client requirements for any computer platform connected to the Internet that uses a Java enabled browser are:

� Netscape Navigator 3.04+

� Microsoft Internet Explorer 3.02+

� Sun Hot Java

i2i works on any and all Java supported platforms, including:

� Windows

� Macintosh


� OS/2

� UNIX systems

The largest full implementation of this product to date has been with Oracle Corporation, and the largest number of concurrent users in a test environment is 2,500. Contigo’s primary markets are sales and marketing, online learning, and corporate communication. Contigo actively pursues business development opportunities with best-of-breed vendors in CRM, registration management, and e-commerce applications. Their three major strengths are scalability, low barrier to entry, and its light footprint (55k Java applet for attendee and 77k Java applet for presenter). The basis of pricing depends on the number of hosts and concurrent user pack, training, and support. An enterprise license sells for $59,000, while the price for 100 users in a hosted system is $15,000 with a hosting fee of $850.

User Reviews

Product Features


Product Model � Contigo Meeting creates on-demand interactive connections and live product demonstrations for small groups.

� Contigo Meeting Pro adds to the above features and secures the environment, maintaining confidentiality for your more professional online session. The 100% Java playback allows access from archived sessions.

� Contigo Seminar adds automated scheduling and registration plus lead capture to the Meeting Pro capabilities. Not only will this allow bringing in more attendees, but it is also more easily integrated into your system infrastructure.

� Contigo Enterprise adds the virtual host architecture to enable e-conferencing solutions for your entire company. This will allow you to completely host and manage varied events on independent sites.


Primary Markets 55% Sales and Marketing

30% Online Learning/Corporate Training

15% Corporate Communication





� Course Content:




– Yes, class can be recorded in its entirety and in sections

– Either the facilitator or system manager can control recording







– Yes multiple course instructors can be dynamically appointed by instructor, enabling geographically dispersed instructors to share equal control of a class


– Polling

– Whiteboard

– Application sharing and viewing





– Assign students to breakout or team rooms on-the-fly; With the enterprise edition of i2i, instructors can launch up to 20 simultaneous breakout meeting sites where students can participate in breakout sessions.

– Attendee management controls give instructors the ability to regulate level of individual student collaboration.


– Yes

Features for Course

Developers


– Yes


– The following can all be uploaded and converted:

� PowerPoint

� Freelance

� Corel Presentation 8

– Any Windows-based application can be demonstrated using the Application Viewing functionality


– The instructor can upload unlimited number of presentations for live classes or can archive for public or private access


– None



– Yes, comprehensive control is maintained through one Central Web Management Console.


– Yes, i2i enables posting of events to a Web calendar and stores all registrant data in an exportable SQL database.


– Yes





– Student records


– Oracle

– ODBC

– MS/SQL

– JDBC


– No





� Administrator cannot:

– Send e-mail to groups of facilitators and/or students from within product during class session


Information Systems Administration


– N/A


– Yes, when hosted on-site; it can also be hosted by Contigo

Audio Features � Delivered over:

– Internet/intranet

– POTS today, Internet using IP in 2nd half of 2000

� Half-duplex

� Standard protocols:

– HTTP





� Polling

� Quizzing



� Record and 100% Java playback; no post production required

Interface Can Be

Customized

Yes


Required

No, but voice and video, when delivered, will require plug-ins and/or ActiveX controls.



Current Capabilities for Working with Third Party

Products

� Integration with existing collaboration tools, learning management systems, and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) applications is enabled by a flexible API and an open database back-end.

� Contigo actively pursues business development opportunities with best-of-breed vendors in CRM, registration management, and e-commerce applications.

Server Requirements � Pentium III 550 MHz+ or equivalent (UltraSPARC, Alpha, PowerPC)

� 128 MB RAM (256 MB recommended)

� Operating System:

– Windows NT 4.0 Server with Service Pack 4 (SP4) or above

– Any UNIX OS w/Java Virtual Machine 1.1.6 with native threads recommended

� Disc space required for software:

– Less than 10 MB

– Majority of hard drive space required is for presenter-uploaded files

– Amount of hard drive space is dependent on file storage policies

� Concurrent user capacity:

– Approximately 700 concurrent users on Macintosh and Windows NT

– Up to 2,500 concurrent users on UNIX systems such as Solaris

Client Requirements � Contigo’s host software will run on any computer platform connected to the Internet that uses a Java enabled browser, including:

– Netscape Navigator 3.04+

– Microsoft Internet Explorer 3.02+

– Sun Hot Java

� i2i works on any and all Java supported platforms, including:

– Windows

– Macintosh

– OS/2

– UNIX systems

� Contigo takes advantage of the new network computers (NCs) being introduced by companies such as Sun Microsystems, Oracle, IBM, and others. These systems are typically designed with no disk drives, and access programs over networks from central servers.

Macintosh Supported Yes

UNIX Supported Yes

Global Capabilities Kanji





2,500

Recommended Class Size � A small, collaborative online session averages 25–50 participants.

� A larger seminar for a marketing, sales, or training application where the focus is on “pushing” content and not collaboration sessions can be effective with audiences as large as 2,500.

Service Offerings � Hosting

� Branding

� Maintenance and enhancements

� Concurrent user packs

� Product training

Product Support � User groups for each market segment

� Contigo regularly reviews product enhancements with its customer base.

Three Major Strengths 1. Scalable: Designed to integrate across the enterprise without taxing network resources while supporting an audience capacity of 2,500

2. Low barrier to entry in terms of cost, bandwidth, installation, hardware, and firewall issues

3. Light footprint: 55k Java applet for attendee and 77k Java applet for presenter

Financial Status of Firm Private

Pricing

Basis of Pricing

� Number of Hosts

� Concurrent User Pack

� Training

� Support


Pricing Scenarios

SCENARIO 1 – Hosting SCENARIO 2 – Small Number of Seats

SCENARIO 3 – Enterprise License



or named users

� 100 Learners: $15,000

� Hosting fee: $850

� $15,000 � $59,000

Contact Info

Contigo Software, Inc.

11512 El Camino Real San Diego, CA 92130 858.792.8206 tel 858.792.8207 fax [email protected] www.contigo.com


E-Learning-on-Tap – Hewlett Packard



30

The Hewlett-Packard virtual classroom solution is a new offering. First becoming available in 1999, it is based on the PlaceWare architecture. HP, in conjunction with PlaceWare, developed additional instructional capabilities to create more of a classroom-based atmosphere. One of the strengths of HP is the worldwide support organization for installing, servicing, and supporting any of their IT solutions. In addition, their Learning Solutions group offers consulting and services to training departments within client organizations. E-Learning-on-Tap (ELoT) is available as a stand-alone training solution that streamlines the way for companies who want their training attended online.

ELoT offers online workshops as an integrated training and collaboration system for corporate employees and students who are off-site in a variety of locales. There are no special software or additional installation costs to the customer with this product. The only stipulation is that client PCs meet the minimum requirements. Hewlett-Packard likens the live online training experience to having access on demand to an online university. They offer technical support, training for instructors, course content, telephone lines, and other necessary products and services in this package. The demand is tremendous for live online training, and Hewlett-Packard hopes to convince clients they are the more affordable choice.

Up to 1,000 people at once can click into a training Web site. Class participants listen to instructors through their telephones and view slides and streaming video on their computer screens. For questions, they can click on an icon of a raised hand. In the event a student wants to take the lead in a specific discussion, the instructor clicks a pointer icon to allow the student to take over. Participants are able to bypass corporate firewalls, thus adding to the ease of use factor. It is impressive to note that the global capabilities of the company include full functionality provided worldwide, availability of HP Virtual Classroom (HPVC) in English and Japanese, and localization for France and Germany in the near future. The largest full implementation to date is 250 users in a single event and 97 unique courses. While the virtual classroom has been tested for up to 250 users, the HPVC setting has been tested beyond 1,000 concurrent users. HP’s primary markets are training, sales and marketing, and project management.

This is a hosting and consulting solution for interactive, online training. The HPVC allows students to join a meeting or training from anywhere in the world. Communication with instructors and other students is accomplished through voice, real-time text, and private chat capabilities. Participants can ask questions, make comments, and illustrate a point on the shared whiteboard. Instructors have access to unacknowledged survey tools in order to check training effectiveness. ELoT supports synchronous and asynchronous events and can store diversified data in HPVC secure rooms. The hosted substructure is firmly established on high-availability HP NetServers, and the hosting solution is supplied. HP utilizes rigorous security executions to protect data transmissions and require user authentication prior to anyone entering the room. No software purchase or installation is required, and plug-ins are only needed by the presenter. Users appear to really like the flexibility of ELoT features. A variety of modules train and support the instructors and adapt the classroom to the customer’s requirements.

Students will find the interactive features enhance their enjoyment of the course and help them to successfully retain knowledge. Some of the best interactions are: recording


features, raise hand, class pace feedback, teacher-to-student messaging, student-to-teacher, student-to-student messaging, and the ability to make and erase annotations. With the virtual classroom, multiple presenters can have full and equal access to the use of all of the presenter features including polling, whiteboard, application sharing, and review of the next content section using the review slides feature. The course content can be downloaded before class, streamed at the time of class, or retrieved from a CD-ROM shipped in advance of the class. Revisions can be made to the course content by uploading revised material into the classroom environment.

Normal services include the provision of training needs analysis; online or integrated curriculum design and development; certification program design; and content design, development, and delivery. They also offer a host of custom services including third-party integration, organizational skills-gap analysis, consulting, and project management. This product is Macintosh and UNIX supported. The client requirements are:

� Windows 95/98: 90 MHz Processor, 32 MB RAM, 256 color video, 800 x 600 display resolution or Windows NT 4.0; 90 MHz processor, 64 MB RAM, 256 color video, 800 x 600 display resolution

� Java-enabled browser: Internet Explorer 4.01 or 5.0, Netscape Navigator 4.06, Communicator 4.51

� Recommended: High color video, 1152 x 882 display resolution

The online solutions provided by ELoT for developing training content, include:

� Presentation templates

� User guides

� Train the Trainer

� Phone line provisioning

� Event consultation and preparation

� Online facilitator

� Dedicated in-room technical support

� Registration services

� Content design, development, and delivery

� Needs analysis

� Integrated/online curriculum mapping and design

� Certification program design

� Third party integration

� Education strategies

� Organizational skills-gap analysis

� Project and education evaluation

Partnerships with third parties such as Docent are offered to provide increased capabilities for the client. Also, HP counts high interactivity, custom content delivery, and a high level of security (including digital keying authentication capabilities) as their major strengths. There are a variety of pricing structures including one-time event pricing based on the number of users and hours, and continuous hosting (a leased room) priced monthly by number of concurrent user hours. No special software or installation costs are made to the customer, and client PCs must simply meet the minimum requirements. Technical support is included. Pricing structures begin at $3,000 for a one-time event. A continuously hosted room may be had for $3,850 per month for unlimited usage. Both of these prices are for 100 users. The


fee for 1,000 users, whether concurrent or named, would be $13,500 per month for unlimited usage.

User Reviews

Users tend to like the ease and flexibility of ELoT features. HP is known for its product support. They have managed to increase the faith of the corporate world in this very area by sending correct answers when questions arise. The lack of extra software and installation costs is another plus that was mentioned. HP is always ready to offer technical support and other necessary as needed.

Product Features


Product Model � HP Virtual Classroom (HPVC) is ELoT’s online hosting environment.

� Value Added Hosting is a suite of services that complement the HPVC environment. A variety of modules are available to train and support the presenters as well as customize the classroom specifically to the customer’s requirements.

� Content Services provide training needs analysis; online or integrated curriculum design and development; certification program design; and content design, development, and delivery.

� Custom Services bring expertise to organization-specific training needs in the areas of third party integration (content and product), organizational skills-gap analysis, consulting, and project management.




25% Project Management and R&D


– Raise hand




– Take notes online

– Students may also make and erase annotations (lines, arrows, pointers, text), indicate that they are offline via a keystroke, ask questions using the Question Manager, disable private chat for themselves by clicking on the mute button, offer approval or disapproval using the Comments feature, and view a countdown clock that indicates number of minutes remaining for the class break

� Course Content:





– Can be called from a disk or CD-ROM shipped in advance of class



– Recording is done by an HP project manager





– Yes, the virtual classroom is Web-based and multiple presenters can have access with full and equal use of the presenter environment wherever the Internet is accessible as long as they have a presenter key.


– Polling

– Whiteboard



– Launch a CBT – the facilitator can add a URL link to the CBT and take the class to it

– A countdown clock that indicates number of minutes remaining for the class break


– None

� Can facilitator preview next piece of content in session?

– Yes, using the Review Slides feature

Features for Course

Developers


– Yes, using PowerPoint

� What types of files can be imported for use in interactive live class?

– PowerPoint

– Word

– Excel

– PDF

– JPEG

– Any files that can be saved in postscript format


– By revising material in application where content was created and uploading into classroom environment


– None



– No




– No


– Planned for next release


– Planned for next release







– Post classes and delete classes



– None


– No



– POTS

� IP audio currently being evaluated

� Full-duplex

� Protocols:

– Conventional telephony for POTS

– Real media protocol for streamed audio

– Proprietary protocol for data



� Application sharing (one-to-many and many-to-many); An unlimited number of presenters can share applications across the environment.


� Polling


� The data is persistent in the room – notes, slide sets, and annotations will remain until someone removes them from the room.

� A variety of tools can be used by the presenter and also given to participants, including annotations, comments, snapshots (screen capture), note taking/sharing/printing, and live demo.

Interface Can Be

Customized

Yes




Required

� Required for facilitators/presenters using live demo, snapshot, and PowerPoint conversion

� Not required for students/participants



� Partnerships with third parties such as Docent provide Learning Management Systems capabilities that may be added to the customer solution.

� Training and demo rooms are available to the third-party partner.

� Content providers receive course templates, course design, and development expertise.

Server Requirements � The customer has no server requirements since HP owns, operates, and supports the entire hosting infrastructure.

� There is no special software for the customer to buy.

Client Requirements � Minimum Windows 95/98:

– 90 MHz Processor

– 32 MB RAM

– 256 color video

– 800 x 600 display resolution

– Java-enabled browser:

� Internet Explorer 4.01 or 5.0

� Netscape Navigator 4.06

� Communicator 4.51

� Minimum Windows NT 4.0:

– 90 MHz processor

– 64 MB RAM

– 256 color video



� Internet Explorer 4.01 or 5.0


� Netscape Communicator 4.51

� Recommended:

– High color video



� Internet Explorer 5.0


� Netscape Communicator 4.7


UNIX Supported Yes

Global Capabilities � Full functionality is provided worldwide and across time zones.

� HPVC is available in English and Japanese today.

� Localization is planned for France and Germany in the near term.



� Technical support is available worldwide in English, and local technical support is planned following sufficient demand for local language tech support.

Largest Full


� Up to 250 users in a single event

� 97 unique courses and several sessions of individual courses

Stress Testing: Largest

number of concurrent users in a test environment

� The Virtual Classroom has been tested for up to 250 users.

� The HPVC environment is built on the Place Server architecture that has been tested beyond 1,000 concurrent users.

Recommended Class Size 250

Service Offerings � ELoT provides online solutions for developing training content, including:

– Presentation templates

– User guides

– Technical support

� For users who need more advanced solutions, ELoT offers value-added services such as:

– Train the Trainer

– Phone line provisioning

– Event consultation and preparation

– Online facilitator

– Dedicated in-room technical support

– Registration services

– Content design, development, and delivery

– Needs analysis

– Integrated/online curriculum mapping and design

– Certification program design

– Third party integration

– Education strategy (from project through team to enterprise)

– Organizational skills-gap analysis

– Project and education evaluation

Product Support � The ELoT solution is supported through HP’s America’s Information Technology group.

Three Major Strengths 1. High interactivity. Participants have a robust set of annotation and collaboration tools that optimizes online meetings and training. Customers are able to upload a variety of files into the classroom, present and work on them as a group, and then keep the information notes and files in the room until the next meeting.

2. ELoT offers custom content delivery and a breadth of services by HP’s Education professionals.

3. High level of security, including digital keying capability for user authentication, encryption to protect data transferred between the client and server, and support subjected to HP’s rigorous security policies and procedures; The HPVC is also able to cross most firewalls.



Financial Status of Firm Public (Nasdaq: HWP)

Pricing

Basis of Pricing

� One-time event pricing is based on number of users and hours.

� Continuous hosting (a leased room) is priced monthly by number of concurrent user hours until a set number of hours is reached. After that maximum point, the customer will incur no additional charges for room use during that particular month. This helps limit costs for customers who use the classroom heavily.

� There are no special software costs to the customer. Client PCs must meet the minimum requirements.

� There are no installation costs.

� Technical support is included with hosting unless the customer prefers to have a technical support specialist dedicated to the session. Dedicated technical support is available at $175/hour.

Pricing Scenarios




Price for 100 users Price for 1,000 concurrent or named users

� As a one-time event:

– $3,000/hour

� As a continuously hosted room:

– $2,850 per month for the first 475 cumulative hours; $6/incremental hour up to a maximum total per month

– $3,850 maximum cost per month for unlimited usage

– Value added services are extra.

� Same as for continuously hosted room for 100 users

� Continuously hosted:

– $13,500 per month for unlimited classroom usage

Value Added Services (Optional)

Offering Pricing for External Customers

One time event

>= 250 participants

� $30 per user per hour


Value Added Services (Optional)

Offering Pricing for External Customers

One time event

< 250 participants

� Custom pricing

Ongoing hosting

– room size 25 people


– $750 min per month

– $1,000 max per month

– 0 to 75 cumulative hours/month

Ongoing hosting

- room size 50 people


– $1,450 min per month



Ongoing hosting






Ongoing hosting





– 0 to 1,400 cumulative hours/month

Ongoing hosting






Ongoing hosting

- room size 1,000 people





Content development & HPVC delivery

� Defined by field

Contact Info

Hewlett Packard Education

E-Learning-on-Tap 100 Mayfield Avenue Mailstop: 36LC Mountain View, CA 94043 800.440.3022 toll-free 650.691.3903 tel [email protected] www.hp.com/e-learning


HorizonLive 2.0 – HorizonLive.com



67

HorizonLive first entered the marketplace as Horizon. However, it was somewhat confusing in comparison to a previous organization called New Horizon, which is in a completely different category (classroom-based IT training). Therefore, Horizon changed their name to HorizonLive, reducing the amount of confusion in the marketplace about the name. They create live, interactive, virtual classrooms with voice and video over standard Internet browsers. With powerful audio and presentation capabilities, HorizonLive’s virtual classroom is used in colleges and universities worldwide. Through all they have to offer, they are able to blend classroom and computer-based training in a live presentation over the Internet. As an added plus, live online training solution shoppers view sample presentations through HorizonLive’s Web site. These occur every Monday, Wednesday and Friday and are arranged in response to previous requests.

With the HorizonLive platform, an instructor leads the classroom discussion, speaking naturally to students using live audio and video capabilities. While doing this, he or she displays content materials on each student's computer screen. Through the use of streaming audio and video capabilities, HorizonLive has built a proprietary messaging system that enables organizations to bypass most corporate firewalls using the client’s own existing intranet. They use software products from Blackboard, a leading online education company. Participants may listen to the audio and view slides after the presentation with the video capabilities. Interaction and collaboration with the presenter and other students are easily made by typing in the chat window. Formats used to help strengthen the presentation include Microsoft PowerPoint, graphics, animations, and interactive forms. The whiteboard feature allows for extensive note-taking opportunities. It permits presenters and participants to enter text, draw arrows, and import images as needed.

Students will enjoy the interactive capabilities of the raised hand feature and receiving information on the pace of the class feedback. In addition, the ability to send messages to teachers and other students helps to round out the participation capabilities. The class can be recorded by the facilitator for later viewing, downloaded before class, or streamed when it is class time. Of course, a CD-ROM can be shipped to the presenter before the class date. Multiple presenters (in separate locations) can equally control the class. A collection of facilitation tools is available to the facilitator, including quizzing, whiteboard, and the ability to control e-forums during class. Students can be assigned to breakout or team rooms on-the-fly and benefit from live online help. Content can be imported from any program that can be viewed in a Web browser, including PowerPoint, Excel, Word, and HTML. Multiple courses can be run simultaneously on a single server while the same Web-based management tools are used to administer all courses. Other tools include those that allow the administrator to register groups of learners and a report generator.

The purpose of HorizonLive is to allow live broadcast offerings or training across the Internet or individual company intranets. Based in New York City, HorizonLive is a leader in the provision of interactive group learning. They easily manage to connect individuals in remote areas through the Internet in order to allow presentation of real-time and recorded training sessions. This system manages to provide a useful knowledge-management tool for Web savvy organizations. Clients range from well-known colleges and universities to world-renowned enterprises.


The popular whiteboarding and LiveApp features offered by HorizonLive are plug-in free for the participants. Server hardware and software are included in the initial purchase. Client requirements are a Pentium II processor and a RealNetworks player. This product is Macintosh supported, and language versions expected in the second half of the year 2000 will help to increase its current global capabilities. They count the absence of needed plug-ins, quick implementation, and open architecture style among their major strengths.

The largest full implementation to date is 3,000 users on two servers, while the most concurrent users in a test environment is 400. HorizonLive’s primary markets are sales and marketing, healthcare, training, and IT. They offer branding, facilitator training, online session support, and course development. A good product support is among the best things offered by this organization. The price for 100 users in a hosted system is $1,200 for 100 simultaneous users for one hour, and the Price for 1,000 concurrent or named users under an enterprise license is $320,000.

User Reviews

While most systems do not support two-way audio, video, or written chat, Horizon Live has coupled written chat with the Real Player programs. The features most people want include:

� Support of two-way conversation, written chat, televised messages, and file transfer

� Show documents, photos, and images

� Allow document writing

� Hold multiple documents

� Provide a fully-shared work area

� Be publicly available

� Use of a Windows platform

� Low support requirements

� Accessible over the Internet

� Able to operate on an intranet

� Offer a reasonable level of security

It is important to allow user-instructor interaction in an easy-to-learn software program. Of equal importance is the ability to use a universally-available communication method, and operate in real-time.

Product Features




20% Healthcare

20% Training

10% IT


– Raise hand






� Course Content:






– Facilitator responsible for recording class





– Yes, multiple presenters/facilitators can control the class.


– Quizzing

– Polling

– Whiteboard



– Launch a CBT





– Live online help


– Yes



– Yes


– Any content that can be viewed in a Web browser

– Any application (or content from an application) on a presenter’s computer, including PowerPoint, Excel, Word, and HTML


– Web-based interface tools


– Templates for PowerPoint

– Templates for quizzing and surveys





– Yes, multiple courses can be offered (and run simultaneously) on a single server, and the same Web-based administration tools can be used to administer all courses.


– Yes


– Yes


– Student record


– Chat logs (class participation)


– ODBC

– SQL


– Can be linked to e-commerce systems


– Send e-mail to groups (facilitators or students) from within product during class session (available in Q2 2000)






Information Systems

Administration


– Web-based wizard (audio and video)


– No



– POTS - Plain Old Telephone System or Services

� Half-duplex – Internet/intranet

� Full-duplex – POTS

� Standard protocols:

– RealNetworks


� Application sharing (one-to-many)



� Polling



� Quizzing


� Full-motion video real-time video (one-to-many)


� Internet relay chat (IRC)

� One-click archive of live event

� Cross platform (PC, Mac, UNIX)

Interface Can Be Customized

Yes


Required

No


Products

� Learning Management Systems

� Enterprise Resource Planning

� Human Resources Information Systems

� E-commerce

� Collaboration tools (included with software)

� Content providers

� UNIX third-party capabilities

Server Requirements Server hardware and software included

Client Requirements � Pentium II or better

� RealNetworks Player


UNIX Supported Yes

Global Capabilities Language versions in second half of 2000

Largest Full


3,000 users

2 servers



400

Recommended Class Size � High interactivity: 20–30 users

� Low interactivity: Up to 200 users

Service Offerings � Branding

� Facilitator training

� Online session support

� Course development available from HorizonLive’s channel partners



Product Support � HorizonLive User Group Web site with product and technical information

� Product support group for direct support of users

Three Major Strengths 1. No plug-ins

2. Quick to implement – up in hours

3. Open architecture – easily integrates with customer’s Web site

Financial Status of Firm Private; Major investors are:

� Argentum Group

� Early Stage Enterprises

� First Analysis Venture Capital

Pricing

Basis of Pricing

� By the hour/user for hosted service

� By the number of users for the server version

Pricing Scenarios

SCENARIO 1 – Hosting SCENARIO 2 – Small Number

of Seats


License



or named users

� $1,200 for 100 simultaneous users for one hour

� $70,000 � $320,000

Contact Info

HorizonLive.com

520 8th Avenue, Suite 2300 New York, NY 10018 212.533.1775 tel 212.533.6041 fax [email protected] www.horizonlive.com


InterWise Millennium 3.0 – InterWise



50

InterWise is an Israeli company that, since 1998, has been creating a presence for itself in the U.S. market. The product has been out since 1999 and is one of the few competitive commodities in the e-learning field. InterWise advocates the classroom similarities and the benefit of having an instructor for training sessions. The company uses voice over IP; and, in the one example I saw, it was more of a distraction than an advantage. At this point, I would still use a telephone audio link rather than try to have a two-way conversation with someone via the Web.

An instructor-led, live online learning platform, InterWise’s Millennium 3.0 gives users the ability to record and edit courses for later review. A good educational environment is provided using live video and two-way audio. Companies can develop and assemble live, interactive classes and instant self-study modules easily with this product. They also provide an easy-to-use student interface, two-way audio, streaming video, and firewall infiltration. The capabilities in this package add support for more than one instructor in live classroom and threaded discussions.

In order to keep pace in today’s fast-moving educational markets, InterWise knows that companies must use every benefit at their disposal to bring the newest skills and educational information to all customers regardless of geographical barriers. Their clients are generally mid-sized organizations providing training on high-tech subjects. Buyers praise the two-way audio as the critical differentiator here. The ability to integrate live e-learning with a company’s other live systems is a noteworthy option as well. Users are able to implant live or prerecorded e-learning sessions into their Web sites to seamlessly reach customers or employees wherever they are. The recording functionality allows companies to access previous recordings of InterWise classes for self-paced refresher courses. All capabilities and provisions are state-of-the-art as InterWise continually adds to its offerings.

InterWise makes good use of the state-of-the-art interactive capabilities offered in the market, including the raised hand option and messaging to students and teachers. Course content can be brought in a variety of ways – downloaded, streamed or via CD-ROM. Record and playback capabilities are used wisely by InterWise, and the program can be co-facilitated at separate locations if needed. Quizzing, polling, whiteboard, and microphone capabilities are available to the facilitator on demand. They also accommodate multiple servers running the same application and reacting as though they were one. Course enrollment, student records, testing, and quiz result reports can be easily generated through this program. Millennium 3.0 enables customers to input user data to their own database, connect to other sites and campus links, and set prerequisites and class size of upcoming presentations.

The server requirements at the campus site are as follows:

� Pentium 350 MHz or higher, 128 MB RAM, Windows NT Server 4.0

� Service Pack 3 (or higher), Option Pack 4

� Standard communications card with TCP/IP support

� Network access at 64 kbps or more (depending on network topology)

The client requirements are:

� For the instructor:


– Pentium 200 or higher, 32 MB RAM or higher, Windows 9x or Windows NT 4

– Standard sound card with speaker

– Monitor with 1024 x 768 resolution (17 inch recommended)

– CD-ROM drive with 8x speed

– Headset or microphone and earphones

– Digital writepad (recommended)

– TCP/IP intranet access or modem (>= 28K)

– Internet access (>= 33.6K for application sharing)

� For the student:

– Pentium 133 or higher, 16 MB RAM or higher, Windows 9x or Windows NT 4

– Standard sound card with speaker

– Monitor with 800 x 600 resolution (15 inch recommended)

– TCP/IP intranet access or modem (>= 28K)

– Internet access >= 33.6K for application sharing

– Headset or microphone and earphones

– Internet Explorer or Netscape 3 or higher (version 4 or higher recommended)

– 100 MB of disk space set aside for learning materials (configurable)

Multilingual support is expected later in the year 2000 and hopes to be upheld in every time zone in the world. The largest full implementation to date has been 8,000 users on one server with four partitions. This was with 125 courses. The largest number of concurrent users in a test situation was 440. InterWise has a wide range of service offerings, including technology services to ensure successful software installation and provide site and system maintenance; support staff to assist in analysis and resolution of connectivity; firewall, operating system, performance, and hardware issues; computer and network experts to assist with situation analysis and resolution; and implementation and support for LiveCycle Services. Their hosted systems services offer customized, full-service hosted programs and partnerships with industry leading firms to enable full-service hosting that supports business-to-business e-commerce.

Professional services you will find with InterWise include: e-learning program consulting, needs assessment, project planning, situation analysis and resolution, resource coordination, and technology consulting. They give live support to instructors and students involved in Millennium live online learning sessions. InterWise considers its major strengths to be the ability to deliver live training over the Internet regardless of bandwidth or firewalls, excellent recording and editing capabilities, and their pioneering technology of the two-way audio support. Pricing structures are as follows: $5,200 per quarter for 100 users to access a hosted system; $131 per year per named user; or $900 per concurrent seat for 1,000 users.

User Reviews

As a whole, corporations appear to be very satisfied with InterWise. One example of this satisfaction deals with InterWise’s problem resolution practices. Always ready to rectify any problems, InterWise brought into existence a thorough pre-support inspection of their client application with each registering participant after only one broadcast failed. This is compared to the telephone support number or e-mail others offer for you to contact if one has a problem during a broadcast.

The InterWise instructor software has been found to be user-friendly, although there is a slight learning curve in the first few practices. The toolbar is easy to understand, and the


functions are explicitly explained. InterWise has users convert their PowerPoint slides to images, then upload them to the campus server. The proper image conversion for this should be .JPEG or .GIF. Unfortunately, screen shots are not always clear afterward due to resolution changes during conversion.

On the student side, the interface has been found to be very easy to use. Students are given the ability to record different course sections as the session continues. One user points out that InterWise is a good product, but it depends on what you are trying to achieve. InterWise is a good choice in combination with PowerPoint when a company must rely on the slower modems that some of their field staff must use to access training. Robert Stewart of the e-learning instructional design staff at Bristol-Myers Squibb in Princeton, New Jersey, points out, “We've used primarily PowerPoint screens for content, and seldom include any full motion video streams because it takes too much space and too long to download by our students.” Many of Stewart’s students are field representatives. The company’s future plans include the development of interactive synchronous learning sessions. They like the facilitator-to-student interaction and fully expect it to be dynamic, engaging, interesting, and provocative while further assuring knowledge retention.

Product Features


Product Model InterWise Millennium is the InterWise flagship product and acts as

the glue for an entire learning program that combines live e-learning,

WBT, CBT, and classroom-based training.


Primary Markets 50% B2B4Fee (fee-based training)

25% Sales Training (internally-based training targeted to the sales force)

15% ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) Training (internally-based training designed to prepare audience for launch of new ERP system)

10% Other


– Raise hand




� Course Content:





– Yes, class can be recorded in its entirety and in sections.

– The class may be edited to one or more “clips.”

– The Campus can automatically record the session. Instructors/facilitators, students, and learning administrators may record. Instructors may also pre-record content or objects for re-use in live events and on-demand asynchronously.







– Yes, using the Multiple Instructors feature, a virtually unlimited number of “co-facilitators” in various locations may interact with participants and have instructor/facilitator control. Multiple instructors may be located independently of each other.


– Quizzing

– Polling

– Whiteboard



– Launch a CBT






– Send notes to students or other instructors

– View all students logged on to the session

– Visually monitor responses to quizzes and polling

– Speak privately with a participant

– Visually monitor receipt of materials by student

– Return students to class from a Web safari or breakout room

– Move through course content in or out of sequence

– Receive anonymous input from students regarding pace of the session

– Adjust instructor or student volume levels

– Take a snapshot of (modified) content and reuse

– Transfer control to teaching assistants or co-facilitators

– Allow students to work with shared applications

– Bring content from breakout sessions to the larger session

– Control students’ ability to raise hand, or interrupt at any time and resume control


– Yes



– Yes


– Any file that can run on participant’s computer:

– PowerPoint

– Word



– Excel

– AVI

– WAV

– CBT


– InterWise focuses on the ability to define, use, edit, and reuse learning components. Any component can be edited: images and files (within the creating application); PowerPoint slide conversion including version management; and InterWise recordings. Recorder/editor allows users to create precise content clips that may be edited into existing or new content. New or edited content may be inserted into existing course agendas or used to create new ones.


– None



– This is irrelevant in the InterWise architecture. All servers run automatically immediately after installation. There is no manual intervention in their operation. InterWise also allows for multiple Campuses to be run on one server. Campus administration is managed across all servers to prevent schedule and resource conflicts.


– Yes. The Campus offers administrators several tools to manage groups of users.


– Yes



– Student record

– List of facilitators and their class assignments

– Completed assignments


– The Millennium Campus offers administrators a plethora of Campus usage data. This data can be exported to other systems for both learning management and billing (e.g., internal and e-commerce). High-level summary and detail data on Campus usage is available, including total course time and time by course, courses and sessions within courses, instructors, students per course, and actual time students are logged on to the class. Other data such as quiz results and test answers are available to generate reports.


– Oracle (Q2 2000)

– Access

– SQL 7 (Q2 2000)




– Millennium 3.0 has several features that help customers deliver e-learning via e-commerce while protecting their copyrights. One of these tools is an API that gives customers the ability to:

� Input user data into the Campus database

� Export attendance data

� Present Campus data on a customer Web site with the ability to present this data with their own look and feel

� Connect to other sites by accepting HTTP requests, user data from flat files, and Campus links

� Generate course information for export in XML format









– Sound-check wizard


– No


� Voice over IP

� Full-duplex



� Application sharing (one-to-many) – from instructor or remote student desktop



� Polling

� Quizzing





� Web Site Integration/API

� Recording/editing of live events and pre-recorded segments including application sharing

� Remote application sharing (student’s application)

� Pre-recorded application sharing



� Multiple Instructors/facilitators

� Push technology to deliver student materials

� Firewall compliance

Interface Can Be

Customized

Yes, Campus user interface may be customized and/or accessed through customized Web portal front-end.

Plug-in, Player, or Software

Other Than Browser Required

Yes



� InterWise has a front-end API that seamlessly integrates InterWise e-learning into Web sites to create instant opportunities/connections to live e-learning sessions.

� InterWise has a back-end API that enables InterWise Millennium to connect to any back-end system or data source.

� Based on InterWise’s B2B4Fee, the company supports e-commerce as a function of helping its customers generate revenue from what they already know.

Server Requirements Campus:

� Pentium 350 MHz or higher

� 128 MB RAM

� Windows NT Server 4.0

� Service Pack 3 (or higher), Option Pack 4

� Standard communications card with TCP/IP support

� Network access at 64 kbps or more (depending on network topology)

Client Requirements Instructor:

� Pentium 200 or higher

� 32 MB RAM or higher

� Windows 9x or Windows NT 4

� Standard sound card with speaker

� Monitor with 1024 x 768 resolution (17 inch recommended)

� CD-ROM drive with 8x speed

� Headset or microphone and earphones

� Digital writepad (recommended)

� TCP/IP intranet access or modem (>= 28K)

� Internet access (>= 33.6K for application sharing)

Student:

� Pentium 133 or higher

� 16 MB RAM or higher

� Windows 9x or Windows NT 4

� Standard sound card with speaker

� Monitor with 800 x 600 resolution (15 inch recommended)



� TCP/IP intranet access or modem (>= 28K)

� Internet access >= 33.6K for application sharing

� Headset or microphone and earphones

� Internet Explorer or Netscape 3 or higher (version 4 or higher recommended)

� 100 MB of disk space set aside for learning materials (configurable)


UNIX Supported No

Global Capabilities � Multilingual support expected later in 2000

� Supports every time zone worldwide

Largest Full


8,000 users

1 server (4 partitions)

125 courses



440

Recommended Class Size Depends on type of course instruction rather than the product; Suggested class sizes would be as follows:

� Broadcast style: Unlimited

� Conceptual training: <= 25

� Intensive application-based training: <=12

Service Offerings InterWise Technology Services:

� Technology Services work to ensure successful software installation and provide on-going site and system maintenance.

� Support staff assists in analysis and resolution of connectivity, firewall, operating system, performance, and hardware issues.

� Computer and network hardware/software experts assist with:

– Situation analysis and resolution

– Implementation expertise in current technologies

– Support for all LiveCycle Services

Hosted Systems Services:

� Customized, full-service hosted systems

� Partnerships with industry leading firms like Globix enable reliable and scalable full-service hosting that supports business-to-business e-commerce.

� Subscription options available

� Live event campus (administration) support

� Maintenance and management services



Professional Services:

� InterWise Professional Services provides e-learning program consulting that ensures initial deployment success, a well-conceived, attainable rollout, and long-term e-learning effectiveness.

� InterWise works with key members of a company’s team to deliver needs assessment, project planning, resource coordination, implementation management, and analysis.

� Services include:

– Implementation, coordination, and execution

– Management, consulting, and analysis

– Technology consulting

E-learning Services:

� InterWise E-learning Services includes consulting and training for planning and implementing the people component of an e-learning solution.

� Working with customer project teams, InterWise assesses the existing learning environment, recommends learning paths and curricula, and assists in the design and development of learning programs that meet customer requirements.

� InterWise offers training workshops on a variety of learning topics, including the Millennium product family. All classes are available live over the Internet or at the customer site.

� E-learning Services offers:

– Change management consulting

– Instructional design for live E-learning

– Millennium product training

Live Support Services:

� Direct, high-priority support to instructors and students involved in a Millennium live e-learning event

� A three-stage process is employed to ensure that students, instructors, and their technical learning environments are fully prepped and event-ready:

– Event preparation

– Just-in-time support

– On-air event monitoring

Product Support Live technical support for classes and in the preparation and implementation of classes.

Three Major Strengths 1. InterWise delivers live e-learning over the Internet regardless of bandwidth and firewall.

2. Recording and editing capabilities to enable instant asynchronous publication

3. Pioneered two-way audio support



Pricing

Basis of Pricing

� Flexible depending on customer requirements

Pricing Scenarios





� $5,200/quarter � $1,500 per concurrent seat for 100

� $131 per year per named user or $900 per concurrent seat for 1,000 users

Contact Info

InterWise

2334 Walsh Avenue Santa Clara, CA 95051 408.748.7800 tel 800.647.9384 toll-free [email protected] www.interwise.com


LearningSpace 4.0 – Lotus Development



Number?

A study requested by Lotus Development Corporation estimates that the worldwide market for online learning services will grow to over $15 billion by the year 2002. Consequently, Lotus is enhancing their available offerings in this area. A part of IBM Mindspan Solutions, LearningSpace 4.0 provides comprehensive, reliable online training with measurable results. Mindspan Solutions prides itself on supplying customers with the capability to plan, create, and assemble online training sessions. This platform arranges for organizations to have appropriate e-learning solutions intended to address key business issues such as training and orientation processes.

Since Lotus' original online LearningSpace training product enabled self-paced, Web-based learning, they are moving to the next logical step. Lotus has added a learning management system with the ability to track and report student progress. LearningSpace 4.0 can accommodate the training of one small group or your entire enterprise. This complete learning management and delivery system allows you to integrate your course content whether it was self-created or purchased from someone else. Delivery methods can be mixed to include self-directed, asynchronous collaboration, and real-time collaboration in the same session. This product will allow you to easily assess and track results.

There are several delivery selection workshops that look closely at methodology, performance consulting, and educational strategy services. Their learner support services offer relief for learners in resolving technical and non-technical issues that would ordinarily impede effective delivery of the online courses. A Frequently Asked Questions database is maintained to benefit everyone concerned. Hosting services provide the platform, operations, and support needed to welcome composition and online training solutions on the Web. Another great offering is the broad support available for curriculum planners, instructors, and administrators implementing the training.

Many top organizations have chosen Lotus LearningSpace to handle their extensive online training programs. They need varied solutions from implementing effective training programs to tracking the results. LearningSpace is a scalable, unified management and delivery method; so, growth is not a problem. It has four types of users in mind: learners, instructors, administrators, and course designers. Access to the training is given based on assigned profiles and permissions. Features unique to LearningSpace 4.0 include: activity tracking, reporting, utilization of an assessment manager, and role and enrollment management. They also offer the availability of a course planner, content creation, and off-the-shelf courseware.

Students will love the interactive tools of the raise hand and text sending capabilities. Course content can be downloaded just before class or streamed at the time of class. However, classes cannot be recorded for playback viewing. The facilitator has access to microphone control, quizzing, polling, whiteboard, and application sharing tools. Among the many files that can be imported for interactive use in the class, you will find the latest versions of Microsoft Word, WordPerfect, Lotus, Excel, PowerPoint, and Paintbrush. Multiple servers can run your application and still offer the appearance that it is a single system. Generated reports include: course enrollment, student records, and a list of instructors and their class assignments.


Lotus LearningSpace 4.0 can be plugged into back-end systems such as HR databases and includes support for corporate firewalls. It will support the Windows NT 4.0 server with Windows Option Pack 4, DB2 6.1, SQL Server 6.5, or Oracle 7.3 or later, and Internet Explorer 4.x and Netscape Navigator 4.x. Client machines need to be equipped with a minimum of Windows 3.1.

Students and instructors are able to work together synchronously or asynchronously. The LearningSpace Collaboration Module gives users the ability to create discussions to enhance coursework, check who is online for Chat, and access live virtual classroom sessions. The core program allows organizations to deliver self-directed courses, provide a course catalog, register students, allow learners to self-register, and track and report performance. This commodity will link the traditional collaborative elements of LearningSpace Anytime 3.0 with the self-directed learning management capabilities in Macromedia Pathware. Continuing their global presence, LearningSpace 4.0 will soon be translated into Brazilian Portuguese, French, Italian, German, Spanish, Dutch, Danish, Swedish, Norwegian, Finnish, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean languages.

Lotus provides a total solution, offering synchronous and asynchronous training under a single interface. Support is provided in the form of technical assistance, management help, and explanation of educational issues. This product has very good video capabilities; but, as is common with net video, it is a bandwidth hog. The shortcomings are that it requires a Domino server, the servers are not integrated, audio is not robust, academic metaphors are used, and it is not an easy fit for stand-alone meetings. Moreover, this product is not available for Macintosh. The cost for 100 users of LearningSpace 4.0 Core is $4,000 and $5,600 for LearningSpace 4.0 Collaborate. The pricing structure for 1,000 users is $36,000 Core and $50,000 for Collaborate.

Some major factors for success have been the following:

� Having participants do a browser test prior to the live session. This helps the users to become comfortable using the Learning Space and ensures that they have appropriate browsers to launch the Learning Space.

� Have one facilitator conduct the class and another to answer messages for the instructor, to help with technical issues, and to monitor the “raise hand” feature.

� Keep highly interactive feature with fewer than 15 people.

Product Features


Product Model LearningSpace 4.0

LearningSpace Core Module

LearningSpace Collaboration Module (includes LS Core) is the delivery tool of the IBM Mindspan Solution.

LearningSpace Forum is the asynchronous component of LearningSpace. It is based on the Lotus Notes/Domino server and is a custom application of Lotus Notes.


Primary Markets Figures not available




– Raise hand



� Course Content:




– No



Features for

Facilitators/Instructors


– No


– Quizzing

– Polling

– Whiteboard





– No



– Yes


– Ami Pro 3.x (.SAM)

– Lotus WordPro 96/97 (.LWP)

– Microsoft Word for Windows 6.0, 7.0, 97 (.DOC)

– Microsoft Word for Macintosh 2.0, 3.0

– Rich Text Format (.RTF)

– Revisable Form Text (.RFT)

– WordPerfect 5.x, 6.x, 7.x

– WordPerfect 8

– WordPerfect for Macintosh 2.0, 3.0

– HTML (.HTM)

– Text file (.TXT)

– Executable file (.EXE)

– ZIP file (.ZIP)

– Microsoft Access 1.0, 2.0 (.MDB)

– Lotus 1-2-3 3.0, 4.0, 5.0, 6.x (.WK3, .WK4, .123)

– Lotus 1-2-3 for Macintosh

– Lotus 1-2-3 for OS/2 (.WG2)

– Microsoft Excel 2.x, 3.0, 4.0, 5.0, 7.0, '97 (.XLS)



– AmiDraw (.SDW)

– Bitmap (.BMP)

– CCITT Group 3 Fax (.TIF)

– Computer Graphics Metafile (.CGM)

– CompuServe (.GIF)

– JPEG file (.JPEG, .JPG)

– Lotus Freelance (.PRE, .PRZ)

– Lotus Freelance for OS/2 (.PRS)

– Lotus PIC (.PIC)

– Microsoft PowerPoint 4.x, 7.0, 97 (.PPT)

– Paintbrush/DCX (multi-page PCX) (.PCX)

– PICT and PICT2 Graphics (.PCT)

– Tagged Image File Format (.TIF)

– Windows Metafile Graphic (.WMF)

– WordPerfect Graphics (.WPG)


– File is changed on local machine and new file is uploaded using Web browser


– None

Features for Course

Administrators/Registrars


– Yes


– Yes


– Yes

� Any report can be customized using Crystal Reports.



– Student record




– Oracle

– ODBC

– SQL

– DB2


– None













– None


– Yes




� Half-duplex

� Protocols:

– H.323 (video/audio)

– T.120 (data)




� Polling

� Quizzing





Interface Can Be

Customized

Yes



Only for audio\video use or for the individual who initiates an application sharing session



Learning management systems - included

Collaboration tools - included

Content providers can launch and track any AICC compliant content

Server Requirements � Windows NT 4.0 is the only server that works with LS 4.0

� 64 MB RAM with an additional 64 MB for Learning Server

� 300 MB disk space



Client Requirements Minimum:

� Windows 3.1

� OS/2 Warp

� 28 kbps modem for audio and video


UNIX Supported Yes

Global Capabilities By the end of Q2, LearningSpace 4.0 will be translated into:

� Brazilian Portuguese

� Chinese (simplified and traditional)

� Danish

� Dutch

� Finnish

� French

� German

� Italian

� Japanese

� Korean

� Norwegian

� Spanish

� Swedish

Recommended Class Size 250 in a data sharing session

Service Offerings � Consulting

� Content creation

� Access to off-the-shelf courseware from IBM and partners

Product Support � Full technical support through Lotus

� Service support through IBM

Financial Status of Firm Public (Nasdaq:IBM)

Pricing

Basis of Pricing

� Pricing is based on named user.

� Volume and academic discounts are available.


Pricing Scenarios




Price for 100 users Price for 1,000 concurrent or

named users

� Negotiated � LearningSpace 4.0 Core:

– $40/user = $4,000

� LearningSpace 4.0 Collaborate:

– $56/user = $5,600

� LearningSpace 4.0 Core:

– $36/user = $36,000

� LearningSpace 4.0 Collaborate:

– $50/user = $50,000

Contact Info

Lotus

Lotus Development Corporation

1000 Abernathy Rd.

Building. 400, Suite 1700

Atlanta, GA 30328

Phone: 864-577-9494

Fax: 770-913-1504

IBM Mindspan

http://www.ibm.com/mindspan


LearnLinc 4.5 – LearnLinc



50

Purchased in February 2000 by Gilatt (an up and coming Israeli company), LearnLinc has positioned itself as an end-to-end solution provider for both synchronous and asynchronous training. It gives the capability of an instructor-led class for a scattered student base utilizing audio and video conferencing. You will find the same interaction and flexibility you would expect from a traditional classroom. Many forms of synchronized training content are provided with LearnLinc, including PowerPoint slides, multimedia authored courseware, Web-based material, streaming video, shared whiteboard, and shared software applications. They offer many firewall-friendly virtual classroom features, including instructor/student floor control, class coordination, assistant instructors, synchronized multimedia, application sharing, whiteboard, and text chat. Their wide array of communication options includes audio conferencing, streaming video, and IP multicasting. An interesting feature is that all audio screen interactions are recorded (i.e., hand raises, opinions, text chat).

Breakout groups can easily be set up as needed to promote team discussions, role-playing, and brainstorming sessions. A separate product, TestLinc, allows the creation, delivery, and grading of testing materials. Translation into other languages is available upon corporate request, and German and Chinese language versions are already available. LearnLinc supports harmonized content in Macromedia Authorware, Asymetrix ToolBook, HTML, MS PowerPoint. This company is clearly focused on the live synchronous environment. LearnLinc’s product is well engineered and shows good strengths in half- and full-duplex audio and inventive application sharing. The use of multicasting for delivery of full motion works very well.

The key differentiators for this product are good use of full- and half-duplex, multicasting of video, split screen application sharing, an easy-to-use interface, and HTTP tunneling. The testing package permits multi-choice, weighted items, fill in the blank, matching columns, and solve for variables. Of course, there are limitations to every product. These include the inability of the administrator to mail to affinity groups, a weak polling tool, limited reporting and sorting ability, and simplistic threaded discussion capabilities.

The server requirements are as follows:

� Windows NT, dedicated Intel Pentium 200 processor (or faster), 64 MB RAM

� Windows NT Server 4.0 with Service Pack 3, minimum of 100 MB hard disk space

� Network interface card which supports TCP/IP

� MS IIS version 4.0 or higher

� Windows 2000

� Windows 2000 Server

The client requirements are:

� Windows 95, 98 or 2000; Intel Pentium 133 or higher; 32 MB RAM or higher

� TCP/IP unicast connection with at least 28.8 kbps

� Browser


� 16 bit SoundBlaster, microphone and headphones

� 800 x 600 resolution and 16-bit color minimum video

Interactive capabilities for the student include the raise hand feature, text messaging, and the ability to take notes on line. Course content can be downloaded from the server prior to class time, streamed at time of class, or taken from the CD that is sent to you (upon request) before the meeting. Either the instructor or student can record the class for later viewing. This live online learning tool also gives the opportunity to have the program co-facilitated from different locations. However, it cannot be run from different servers acting as one. Facilitators will be able to take advantage of quizzing, polling, and launching and stopping CBT.

For interactive class use, you can import these synchronized multimedia compositions: Macromedia Authorware & Director, Click2Learn ToolBook, PowerPoint slides, plus any Web-based content or Windows-based screens. The report generator will give test scores for a given class to be exported into Access, ODBC, or SQL databases. IS support is required for installation on the server side, but not the client.

The largest full implementation to date was 3,000 users on two servers. This was taking into consideration the 25 courses. LearnLinc’s primary markets are IT, sales training, higher education, and government, in that order. They offer online certification courses for instructors, administrators, and content authors. Contracted offerings include: training department assessment, needs analysis, pilot project management, installation and network configuration, train-the-trainer instruction, and content development. Their major strengths are considered to be thoroughly tested learning tools, extensive live Internet learning, and comprehensive solutions to blend traditional and technology-based training.

LearnLinc 4.5 is a simultaneous user server. Customers purchase LearnLinc and licensure for the number of concurrent users they expect. Their pricing structure begins with $1,000 for 100 users to take one class. From there, it increases to an enterprise licensure discounted for volume (i.e., 1,000 concurrent users would be approximately $500,000). There are no Macintosh or UNIX support options to be accessed with this product.

User Reviews

LearnLinc has been training sales representatives to better handle client questions for some time. One major company quotes a 4 percent rise in learning accuracy over traditional classroom training. After considering the budget figures for construction, travel costs, and class-scheduling efforts, another enterprise realized that live online training was the only viable solution. Their reward was a near 100 percent learning retention result of all who took the course.

Of course, clients must have the capabilities to run LearnLinc. One major insurance company realizes they are fortunate to be able to support streaming media capabilities. As is the case everywhere, bandwidth is not unlimited; and concerns of near network overload must be addressed.

Product Features





Primary Markets 50% IT

30% Sales Training

10% Higher Education

10% Government


– Raise hand





� Course Content:






– Learner or facilitator can record class





– Yes. Assistant Instructor can monitor hand raise, feedback, and text chat to aid the named instructor.


– Quizzing

– Polling

– Whiteboard



– Launch a CBT





– Instructor can give floor control to any student where the student is able to control content and be heard by the rest of the class


– Yes. There is a “do not disturb” option for this purpose.

Features for Course

Developers


– No




– Synchronized multimedia content:

� Macromedia Authorware & Director

� Click2Learn ToolBook

� Allen Communication’s Designer’s Edge & Quest

� PowerPoint slides

� Any Web-based content

� Any Windows-based screens can be pasted into the whiteboard


– N/A


– None

Features for Course



– No


– Yes


– Yes. TestLinc can generate testing reports.




– Access

– ODBC

– SQL


– None








Information Systems

Administration


– Yes


– No for client

– Yes for server


� Full-duplex



� IP audio codec protocol






� Polling

� Quizzing




� Synchronized multimedia content:

� Macromedia Authorware and Director

� Click2Learn ToolBook

� Allen Communication’s Designer’s Edge and Quest

� Glimpse – instructor can capture student screens to monitor activities

� TestLinc – testing and assessment tool

Interface Can Be

Customized

Yes



Yes



� Learning Management Systems:

– Click2Learn Ingenium

– Macromedia Pathware

� Synchronized content authored in:

– Macromedia Authorware

– Macromedia Director

– Allen Director’s Edge

– Allen Quest

– Click2Learn ToolBook

� Content providers:

– ExecuTrain

– New Horizons

Server Requirements Windows NT (for up to 25 concurrent users on a single server):

� Dedicated Intel Pentium 200 processor or faster

� 64 MB RAM

� Windows NT Server 4.0 with Service Pack 3

� 100 MB hard disk space (minimum)



� Network interface card (supporting TCP/IP)

� MS IIS version 4.0

Windows 2000 (for up to 25 concurrent users on a single server):

� Dedicated Intel Pentium II 300 processor or faster

� 128 MB RAM

� Windows 2000 Server

� 100 MB hard disk space (minimum)

� Network interface card (supporting TCP/IP)

� MS IIS version 5.0

Client Requirements Windows 95 or 98:

� Intel Pentium 133

� 32 MB RAM

� TCP/IP unicast connection with at least 28.8 kbps

� Browser

� 16 bit SoundBlaster-compatible sound card with support for DirectX6 (full-duplex recommended)

� Microphone and headphones


Windows 2000:

� Intel Pentium 200 MMX

� 64 MB RAM

� TCP/IP unicast connection with minimum 28.8 kbps

� Browser

� 16 bit SoundBlaster-compatible sound card with support for DirectX6 (full-duplex recommended)

� Microphone and headphones



UNIX Supported No

Global Capabilities � LearnLinc virtual classroom and virtual campus can be translated

into any language.

� German and Chinese language versions are already available.

Largest Full Implementation to Date

3,000 users

2 servers

25 courses



200



Recommended Class Size 25

Service Offerings � LearnLinc offers online certification courses for Instructors, Administrators, and content Authors.

� The LearnLinc Success Team can be contracted for:

– Training department assessment

– Needs analysis

– Pilot project management

– Installation and network configuration

– Instructional design

– Multimedia content development

– Train the trainer instruction

Product Support � LearnLinc User Group Annual conference

� LearnLinc User Council

Three Major Strengths 1. A thorough and customer-tested list of learning tools

2. A great deal of customer experience in live Internet learning

3. The recent merger with Gilat Communications and Allen Communication allows LearnLinc to offer integrated and comprehensive solutions to blend traditional and technology-based training from one vendor source.

Financial Status of Firm LearnLinc was recently acquired by Gilat Communications (Nasdaq: GICOF), joining Allen Communication as part of a comprehensive e-learning solution.

Pricing

Basis of Pricing

LearnLinc 4.5 is sold as a concurrent user server. Customers begin by purchasing a LearnLinc Server licensed for the number of concurrent users that is most appropriate. Concurrent users are the total number of students and instructors who are logged in to LearnLinc classes at the same time. There is no additional charge for the number of client seats.

LearnLinc is also available with videoconferencing, video streaming, and multicasting at an additional cost.


Pricing Scenarios





or named users

� LearnLinc Application Hosting is priced by the student hour and depends on the volume of classes.

� The average price is $10 per student hour, i.e., 100 learners could take one class each for $1,000.

� The price for 100 concurrent users with Internet Audio is $88,000.

� An Enterprise License is discounted for volume.

� A 1,000 concurrent user license with Internet audio is approximately $500,000.

Contact Info

LearnLinc Corp.

385 Jordan Rd. Troy, NY 12180 518.286.7000 tel 518.286.2439 fax [email protected] www.learnlinc.com


Tier 2 – General Capabilities

These products have a varied amount of prominence in the marketplace. They are somewhat familiar to those in the training community and offer live online capabilities. However, they do not have specific instructional capabilities. Read through all of the information before making your choice. These products may well meet your needs and are certainly worthy of consideration. While examining your needs for one of these products, keep in mind that while specific training capabilities are not available, they have many attributes that are useful to those with varied training needs. Consider the integration capabilities, ease of information exchange, and the feel of personal attention.

� Akamai Netpodium 2.1

� LearningBias 2.0

� MeetingPlace 2000

� MShow 2.45

� OnLive Audio Servers

� PictureTalk Distance Training Server 3.0

� PlaceWare Conference Center 2000 Akamai Technologies

� WebCore 1.02


Akamai Netpodium 2.1 – Akamai Technologies



1,000 (including resellers)

Akamai Netpodium, owned by MetaBridge, is a software used for delivering live, interactive training sessions on the Web. This Java creation allows an audience to hear a live spoken presentation, interact through messages, and return later to see and hear a recorded copy. It enables the creation, delivery, and archival of live Internet broadcast to geographically scattered audiences. Voice capabilities work quite well, though the streaming capabilities require Real Player or a similar plug-in. Live input during the presentation is saved, and anyone can access the recorded version on demand. It could be a problem with some firewalls.

This product runs Microsoft Windows NT, but is not available for Macintosh. With this product, companies are able to broadcast to over 100 training participants. Netpodium is a solution for hosting live, online learning and other events suitable for up to 2,000 attendees. Students expect live online training to be significantly different than what might be found in a physical venue. Here, the students need only to have a Java-enabled Web browser, streaming media plug-in, and access to the class URL to attend class. The system requirements for optimum usage are:

� Windows NT Server version 3.51 or higher

� UNIX server systems that support a Java Virtual Machine

� Pentium 120 or higher, 64 MB of RAM, and 3.5 MB of disk space

MetaBridge has successfully installed and run Netpodium on Linux, Solaris, and Sun OS. Moreover, there is a free trial version available that will accommodate five students. Global presence is small as there are no other languages are currently supported in the Netpodium product. The largest implementation to date is over 2,000 users accessing through a maximum of four servers. Their primary markets are sales and marketing, IT, and e-learning, in that order. Netpodium’s three major strengths are that they are completely Web-centric, have good use of interactivity, and use multiple platforms and connection rates for streaming. To accommodate 100 users, Netpodium will charge between $5,000 and $6,000 per stream not counting add-ons. The same services for 1,000 concurrent or named users will range between $17,000 and $20,000 without add-ons.

User Reviews

Upon registering, it is necessary to perform a quick system test to ensure learners have the required components. Netpodium requires a Real or Windows media player. Realistically, you can expect to see problems in 5-10 percent of the students. These will include not having media players, sound cards, or speakers installed - most are easily solved. It is important to select the correct tool for your audience size and subject matter. The larger the audience, the less interaction you will have. The appropriate technology for this will include streamed video, presentation slides, and real-time messaging for questions. Suitable content includes business topics or higher-level technical areas. For more interactive sessions such as developer training, use a smaller, more focused session such as presentation slides, application demo-ing, Web tours, and whiteboarding.


Netpodium is often used for lengthier seminar type events. They offer a good delivery of video seminars and synchronous chats and attendee surveys during them. Due to the heavy use of video and graphic design, it takes a lot of work to put together a presentation with Netpodium. This is also a very expensive and laborious process. However, a presentation can come together in as little as one to two weeks.

It is wonderful to be able to archive the event, and very worthwhile when you have a large audience. The end result is quite rewarding and the closest you are going to get to a face-to-face seminar. Larger organizations have added teams of people whose job it is to create and develop the Netpodium content in conjunction with the seminar speaker. Creating the content for online instruction is not be any more difficult than for a face to face delivery. The same type of learning objectives are present, you are simply using a different delivery mechanism. Instructors thoroughly enjoy the experience of using the training tools. They receive full support from the moderation team whose job it is to field and filter questions, the most relevant of which are directed to the expert.

As far as implementation problems go, Netpodium is not easy to use or cheap. One company told us that they felt compelled to set up a several servers for the sole purpose of delivering streaming video and other needs of the product. They also set up a video-editing suite. however, this can be done with less expense. Netpodium comes highly recommended as a tool for a large scale project if the company has a very large audience and a healthy development budget.

Product Features




10% IT

10% E-Learning (These figures equal 90%.)





� Course Content:


� A “preflight” process allows users to determine whether they have the proper system configuration. Then, logging on to the event URL prior to the event starting allows any content to be pre-cached for speedy delivery during the event.




– Streamed content and summary of polls, poll results, questions asked of and answered by the presenters/moderators are all included in the archive

– System manager is responsible for recording class





– Yes. Presentations are facilitated and broadcasted from one main location (classroom, conference, or studio). However, live (or pre-recorded) video or audio from another source can be “switched” into the broadcast. In addition, multiple geographically dispersed moderators can route written questions from the message center to the on-camera presenters or answer them during the event. These live streams cannot be broadcasted simultaneously; however, the moderators are all logged on to the broadcast simultaneously.


– Ability to create polling questions in advance and on-the-fly


– Launch a CBT



– Customer management and registration functionality with New World Direct solution, including customer list uploading and pre-event survey capabilities

– Pay-Per-View and/or prerequisite functionality through Wave Systems’ payment solution


– Yes. Ability to view the slide content, polling questions and results, all e-mail communications, and live Web sites



– Yes


– Any content which can viewed in a browser can be imported as presentation content, including:

� HTML

� DHTML

� Flash


– From making changes in a PowerPoint presentation to re-scripting HTML


– Presentations can be built within PowerPoint templates and incorporated into several different style templates within Akamai Netpodium, depending upon the desired user (audience) experience or the business results desired from the event



– N/A


– N/A




– Yes. Reporting includes:

� Name and e-mail addresses

� Date, time, duration, and location (URL or physical venue) of the broadcast

� Number of poll (or quiz) questions that each audience member responded to, and exactly how they responded

� Which questions each audience member asked through the message center and how those questions were answered (either by the presenter or moderators)



– Student record


– Oracle

– Access

– ODBC


– Pay-Per-View (PPV) model for collecting admission fees or fees for archive downloads can be implemented. In addition, e-commerce opportunities exist during live Web tours on sites that incorporate online stores or links to other e-commerce pages.







Information Systems

Administration


– A preflight URL is provided which allows users to test system configuration for both audio and video.


– No

Audio Features � Audio Delivery:

– Internet/intranet (primary)

– POTS - Plain Old Telephone System or Services (optional)

– T1 (optional)

– Satellite (optional)

– Audience members with connections below 56k will receive audio only. For those who have no Internet connection at all, a conference call connection (via POTS) can be added to the broadcast.

� Half-duplex



� Protocols:

– H.323 (audio/video)

– HTTP

– TCP/IP

Collaboration Features � Ability to lead class in Web surfing

� Polling

� Quizzing capabilities can be created through the polling feature




� Managed communications through the Message Center, allowing audience to ask questions and view others’ questions which can be answered publicly or privately by moderators and/or the presenter

� Audience management and registration, including pre-event questionnaires

� Pay-Per-View or prerequisite capabilities

� Recording and archiving

� Database/information capture and reporting

Interface Can Be

Customized

Yes


Required

� Depending on how the event is being broadcasted, a Windows Media Player or Real Media Player is required by the audience.

� Developers and facilitators only need a browser as they log on to Akamai Netpodium servers via the Internet to conduct events.

� Production, encoding, and acquiring live streams for the event is managed as part of Akamai’s Live Interactive Web Event service.


Products

� E-commerce:

– Wave Systems provides Netpodium customers the ability to create Pay-Per-View events, or charge for archived events.

– Merchandise can be sold during broadcasts via the content window and Web tours.

– Sponsorships are a possibility for revenue generation.

� Content Providers

– Customers can have their entire event created by Akamai’s reseller partners who specialize in content creation and high-end production capabilities.

Server Requirements Windows NT

Client Requirements Windows


UNIX Supported Some

Global Capabilities The Netpodium interface does not support other languages.




Largest Number of Users: 2,000+

Average Number of Users: 100

Servers: 1–4



No figures available

Recommended Class Size Small: 25 or less

Average: Up to 200

Large: Up to 2000

Service Offerings Web broadcasting application and services

Product Support � Sales support

� Technical support

� Broadcast production and scheduling

� Broadcast/studio training

Three Major Strengths 1. Completely Web-centric

2. True interactivity (real-time messaging, polling)

3. Utilizes multiple platforms and connection rates for streaming

Financial Status of Firm Public (Nasdaq:AKAM)

Pricing

Basis of Pricing

Number of users (streams) and value added services (registration, archiving, etc.)

Pricing Scenarios





� $5,000 – $6,000 (minimum price per stream, not including overage and add-on services)

� Same as Scenario 1 � $17,000 – $ 20,000 (minimum price per stream, not including overage and add-on services)

Contact Info

Akamai Technologies

1011 Western Avenue, Suite 800 Seattle, WA 98104 206.674.6000 tel 206.674.6001 fax [email protected] www.netpodium.com


LearningBias 2.0 – NetBias



<25

As an all-inclusive Internet communication software, LearningBias offers multi-point audio, live session archiving, whiteboard, application sharing, and detailed tracking and reporting all within the LearningBias framework. This method of live Internet communication delivery is quick, precise, and smooth. LearningBias reduces the cost of communicating and educating as well as increasing participant retention and productivity. Participants can communicate through multi-point audio using their computer microphone or through a text chat window. They can show each other content, link to external Web sites, share a whiteboard, and take tests (which are immediately graded). This software operates with a minimal requirement of a Pentium 233, 64 MB, and a connection speed as low as 28.8 kbps.

LearningBias software includes over 400 connected courses and can be used to conduct multiple live online sessions with testing and tracking service abilities. These classes are offered in a standard CBT format or can be given live by a trainer. In this way, they create a virtual interactive climate that is easy to operate and afford. MeetingBias is a product to be used for meetings as opposed to training and offers multi-point audio, archiving of meetings, e-mail notification, and registering capabilities. One room serves up to 25 people with a point and click interface. Both products use the same collaboration engine. The main server requirements to accomplish these tasks are:

� Linux operating system preferred

� Pentium III 800 (or equivalent), 512 MB

� 9 GB Ultra Wide SCSI hard drive

� SDSL, T1 Internet connection

Ideal client requirements are:

� Windows 9x or NT 4.0, Pentium 233 (or equivalent), 64 MB

� 33.6 kbps or PPP connection to an Internet Service Provider, Ethernet, or LAN connection

� VGA 256 colors (800 x 600 resolution)

� 16 bit sound card, speakers and microphone

Included capabilities for Macintosh are:

� Macintosh System 7.5x or 8.x

� PowerPC, 32MB RAM

� 33.6 kbps or PPP connection to an Internet Service Provider, Ethernet, or LAN connection


� Netscape Communicator 4.x

� TCP/IP: Apple's Open Transport Recommended

While global capabilities are small, LearningBias is working on unicode in Asia. The largest full implementation of this product has been with 1,250 users on one server with 50 courses. The primary markets here are universities, O.D., IT, and sales and marketing, in that order. There is a one-time fee of $25,000 for one server. There can be an unlimited number of registered users, and the server will accommodate 250 concurrent users. Support for the


first year, personnel training, and software installation is included in the contract price. The pricing structure for 100 students is $18,000 per year, while there is a one-time fee of $60,000 for a cluster of six servers and unlimited users.

Product Features


Product Model � LearningBias is the flagship product, which can be used to conduct multiple live online sessions with testing and tracking functionality.

� MeetingBias is a product to be used for meetings, product updates, and sales meetings.

� Both products use the same collaboration engine.


Primary Markets 50% Universities/Colleges

25% Organizational Development

15% IT



– Raise hand





� Course Content:






– Facilitator can record class





– Yes. Any number of facilitators can be in a classroom.


– Quizzing

– Whiteboard







– Yes



– No


– Any Web-based content tool


– Teachers can add and delete individual portions of their content at any time using a template in the software.



– Yes


– No


– Yes



– Student record


– Test score by date or student

– Attendance and log-in times are tracked


– Oracle

– SQL


– None












– Yes


– Yes



– ISDN

– T1

– Voice over IP

� Half-duplex





� Quizzing


Interface Can Be

Customized

Yes


Required

No



� LearningBias is developed to the open standards of the Internet and can integrate any content created with any authoring tool, including PowerPoint.

� Over 400 courses developed by a third party are integrated in the software.

Server Requirements � Linux operating system preferred

� Pentium III 800 (or equivalent)

� 512 MB

� 9 GB Ultra Wide SCSI hard drive

� SDSL, T1 Internet connection

� 10/100 Ethernet card

Client Requirements � Windows 9x or NT 4.0

� Pentium 233 (or equivalent)

� 64 MB

� 33.6 kbps or PPP connection to an Internet Service Provider, or an Ethernet or LAN connection


� 16 bit sound card

� Speakers and microphone



� Netscape communicator 4.x, IE 4.x or 5.x

� TCP/IP Protocol Stack (Winsock or equivalent)

Macintosh Supported Yes, on the client side, with the following requirements:

� Macintosh System 7.5x or 8.x

� PowerPC

� 32MB

� 33.6 kbps or PPP connection to an Internet Service Provider, or an Ethernet or LAN connection


� Netscape Communicator 4.x

� TCP/IP: Apple's Open Transport Recommended

UNIX Supported � Yes, on the server side. LearningBias is Linux-based server software.

� UNIX support on the client side is under development.

Global Capabilities Currently working on unicode for Asia


1,250 users

1 server

50 courses



100

Recommended Class Size � The system (one server) can have up to 250 concurrent users with an unlimited number of classrooms.

� A class size of 20-25 students is recommended.

Service Offerings � Installation

� Training

� Course development/conversion at $100/hour

Product Support Product support is provided via a toll-free number.

Three Major Strengths 1. Multi-point audio over IP

2. Archiving of live sessions

3. No downloading of proprietary software



Pricing

Basis of Pricing

� Pricing is server-based.

� There is a one-time fee of $25,000 for one server.

� The number of registered users is unlimited and the server will accommodate 250 concurrent users.

� All contracts come with training of personnel.

� All software purchases include installation on site.

� Support is included with the purchase for the first year. In the second year and subsequent years, the support/upgrade cost is $5,000/annually.

Pricing Scenarios





or named users

� Hosting of 100 learners on a LearningBias server is $18,000/year.

� Purchase of software not required with this scenario

� Per-user pricing not available

� A small number of users can be hosted for $1,500/month.

� A one-time fee of $60,000 for a LearningBias cluster of 6 servers

� An unlimited number of registered users are supported for this price.

Contact Info

NetBias, Inc.

680 Craig Road, Suite 307 St. Louis, MO 63141 800.469.1280 toll-free 314.997.7878 fax [email protected] www.netbias.net


MeetingPlace 2000 – Latitude Communications



500+

Latitude’s MeetingPlace system gives e-conferencing capabilities to all employees across a designated company. This is done in conjunction with allowing external partners, customers, and vendors to create a protected avenue of collaboration with the enterprise. Real-time collaboration applications are enabled to improve field effectiveness, training, and project management and event support. Specialty uses such as analyst calls, crisis management, and marketing events are promised to be safe and secure with this software. They can also flexibly customize all interactions that business needs demand. Their flexibility and business scalability are why MeetingPlace feels they have become the only e-conferencing platform to furnish millions of client scheduled sessions every year.

MeetingPlace uses an organization’s existing voice, data, and Internet network. They currently offer sustenance to more than 275 companies and boast to being the first provider to bring the following features to market:

� Browser-based scheduling interface

� FAX integration

� E-mail integration

� Integrated recording

� RealAudio for conference playback

� Microsoft Outlook integration

� Call management interoperability

MeetingPlace delivers strong levels of scalability and supportability and enables far-reaching positioning. It preserves the integrity of restricted corporate data and voice discussions, while allowing external vendors and customers to take part. MeetingPlace’s server-based architecture permits centralized guidance and predictability related to the deployment by IT providers. Designed for collaboration between the host and attendees, supplementary features allow for real-time document editing. As a plus, business meetings can be scheduled using the Web browser or computer interface.

Leading MeetingPlace customers include Aetna, Andersen Consulting, Cisco, Hewlett-Packard, Merrill Lynch, Microsoft, NBC, and Oracle. Online learning is just one of many applications for MeetingPlace across an enterprise. Other uses include real-time collaboration, rollouts of new products, and project management support. MeetingPlace can be networked across various geographic locales and can be managed remotely. No training is required to be brought onto the system, and regular users find that online learning is completed using everyday tools. The conference server is an integrated platform offering strategic communication tools. Student interactions include raise hand and text sending capabilities. The course content can be downloaded or accessed from the provider-sent CD before class. Another option is to have it streamed at the time of class. The class can be recorded in its entirety or in sections for later viewing. Learner, facilitator, or system manager can record the class. Instructor co-facilitated training is enabled as are the whiteboard and application sharing capabilities. Content creation can be done in the program, and almost any type of file can be imported for use.


Multiple servers can run this program as though it were a single system. System, attendance, and billing reports may be run through the report generator. Also, this product is Macintosh and UNIX supported. Client requirements are as follows:

� IMAP compliant e-mail gateway

� Support for Lotus Notes and Microsoft Outlook

� Java-enabled browser

� Telephone for voice conference

� Windows NetMeeting, SunForum, Timbuktu Enterprise, or HP Visual Conference to host a data conference

Current global capabilities include operation in nine countries with 300 time zone configurations built in. The largest implementation to date is with over 100,000 users and 35 servers. This translates to over 800,000 meetings per year. Each network server can support 960 concurrent users. Innumerable participants may be present at each meeting simply by using the technique of cascading servers. Services offered include system monitoring, customized billing and reporting, help desk, offsite backup capacity, system installation, and training tutorials. MeetingPlace counts interface predominance, scalability, and voice and data integration among its top strengths. Pricing structure is $180,000 for hardware, software, corroboration of paperwork, project management services, placement, integration, and education.

User Reviews

Product Features


Product Model � MeetingPlace Conference Server is an integrated hardware and software platform.

� Latitude offers several option modules that enable the integration of MeetingPlace with other strategic communications tools used by the enterprise.


Primary Markets No breakdown available


– Raise hand



� Course Content:






– Learner, facilitator, or system manager can record class

Features for



� Yes. Programs consist of voice and data elements.



– Voice elements are facilitated through conference calls over telephony (POTS or IP) networks enabling remote facilitators.

– Data elements are facilitated through a combination of T.120 clients, including:

� Windows NetMeeting

� SunForum

� SGIMeeting

� HP VisualizeConferefence

� Web browsers

– One or more facilitators can broadcast content using T.120 clients where very large numbers of participants can view it through Java-based viewers.


– Whiteboard


– Launch a CBT




– Lock the meeting

– Automated system outdial

– Roll call

– Waiting room for listen-only participants

– Automated Q&A

– Restrict meetings by password


– Yes. By opening a second window on the facilitator’s screen, he/she can view future meeting content during a session.

Features for Course

Developers


– Yes


– Using the attachments feature, any type of file can be imported for use during the meeting.


– Participants can change or add attachments before, during, or after the conference.


– In addition to operational documentation, MeetingPlace comes bundled with a rollout kit designed to facilitate usage of MeetingPlace in different applications, including training.



– Yes. Servers can be seamlessly integrated to work as though they were a single system.




– Yes


– Yes.


– System reports (updates on hardware and software)

– System usage reports (scheduling stats, port usage, scheduled vs. actual)

– Scheduling activity by user

– Meeting attendance by user

– Meeting information

– Attachment information

– Question and answer usage

– Billing reports (dialing, billing, and disk space usage)

– Raw data reports


– Access

– ODBC

– SQL


– Yes, MeetingPlace allows business-to-business communication that can help support e-commerce activities.


– Send e-mail to groups of facilitators and/or students from within product before the meeting starts to verify who will be in attendance






Information Systems

Administration


– Advanced diagnostic tools are available to authorized MeetingPlace support centers to test audio functions.


– No. MeetingPlace distributors provide full project management support and physical installation. Customers only need to provide a contact to help facilitate logistics.




– ISDN

– T1

� Full-duplex



� Protocols:


– T.120 (data)





� E-mail and fax notifications

� Automated telephone outdial to participants

� Automated numeric paging to participants

� Audio announcements for entry and departure of participants

� Lock meeting to new participants

� Delete unwanted participants

� Viewable attachments

� Lecture-style or group discussion meetings

� Comments

� Conference recording and playback

Interface Can Be

Customized

Yes



No


Products

� MeetingPlace can integrate with the following:

– Lotus Notes

– Sametime

– Microsoft Outlook

– Microsoft Exchange

– Windows NetMeeting

– RealAudio

– SNMP

– Browsers

– Fax servers

– IP Phones

– PBX

– ACD (Call Centers)

� MeetingPlace also has APIs for integration with other products.

� Since the product uses industry standards, integration with existing infrastructure can be completed without modifying voice, data, and Internet networks.

Server Requirements � The core of the system has integrated hardware and software.

� An NT server is required, and configuration varies depending on the size of the MeetingPlace system.



Client Requirements � Scheduling: MeetingPlace has an IMAP compliant e-mail gateway for sending and receiving meeting notifications. MeetingPlace supports Lotus Notes and Microsoft Outlook for both scheduling and e-mail notification. A Java-enabled browser can also be used for scheduling a meeting.

� Attending: For voice conferencing, all that is required is a telephone. To join a data conference the user must have a Java-enabled browser.

� Conference hosting: To host a data conference, the user must have either Windows NetMeeting, SunForum, Timbuktu Enterprise, or HP Visual Conference.

� Reviewing: A meeting can be reviewed over the phone or via Real Audio on the Web.


UNIX Supported Yes

Global Capabilities � MeetingPlace is currently operating in 9 countries and is configured such that each meeting participant receives meeting notifications in their local time zone.

� MeetingPlace supports 300 time zones, taking into account different dates for daylight savings.

� Because the product is standards-based, it can be used worldwide with out modification.

Largest Full


100,000+ end-users

35 servers

800,000+ meetings/year



MeetingPlace is deployed across entire Enterprises with thousands of concurrent users. Each network server can support 960 concurrent users.

Recommended Class Size � Class sizes can vary from 2–1,000 with a variation in the amount of interactivity due only to the expanded number of participants.

� An unlimited number of participants can attend each meeting by using the technique of cascading servers.

Service Offerings � System Administration Services to ensure optimal system management and monitoring. These services include proactive system monitoring practices, customized billing and reporting, and database management.

� User Support Services offers assistance with user education, meeting design, help desk, and consultation.

� Full Care Support includes services such as telephone-based problem identification and resolution, software release subscription, application support, and offsite backup capacity and replacement systems.

� Implementation Services includes project management to ensure a timely and successful deployment, system installation, deployment and rollout, and training.



Product Support � The online MeetingPlace Infocenter provides training tutorials as well as hints and answers to frequently asked questions.

� Latitude also offers e-News, Latitude University, and Expert Roundtables for its customers.

Three Major Strengths 1. Interface Ubiquity. MeetingPlace is in the hands of the user whether they have access to the Internet, a phone, GroupWare, or a Palm VII handheld computer.

2. Scalability. MeetingPlace can be effectively deployed across even the largest enterprises. It is just as effective for a meeting between 5 people as for a lecture given to many hundreds.

3. Integrated Voice and Data. Users can collaborate in real-time both by phone and by sharing documents over the Internet. Voice communication is handled over the existing PSTN, which gives robust high quality audio connections.

Financial Status of Firm Public (Nasdaq:LATD)

Pricing

Basis of Pricing

The bulk of the pricing is based on the number of concurrent user licenses purchased. There are also fixed costs relating to platforms and certain software options.

Pricing Scenarios


of Seats


License



or named users

� Latitude does not sell systems in a hosted environment today.

� The company’s channel partners do sell in this manner, but the pricing varies and is typically based on a per-minute charge.

� Latitude does not sell systems based on number of users.

� $180,000 for hardware, software, documentation, project management services, installation, integration, and training

Contact Info

Latitude Communications, Inc. 2121 Tasman Drive Santa Clara, CA 95054 408.988.7200 tel 408.988.6520 fax [email protected] www.latitude.com


MShow 2.45 – MShow.com



2,500+

What is nice about MShow is the fact that it is a service. This makes it extremely easy to use. There is an online assistant to help make sure everything works along the way so you can have a near-bulletproof presentation. This is a good way to get started in the live online training area since the online assistance during this session helps take the pressure off the instructor presenting for the first time. They work on a high quality delivery using a separate audio channel for additional sound quality.

This high-impact, easy-to-use interactive Web broadcasting service enables high-technology companies to bring powerful information to prospects, customers, and employees through the Internet. MShow is used to inform and motivate field sales staff, making them feel they are always in the loop. To use this service, MShow presenters and audience members need only a PC and Internet access. Their core services are live event production and interactive broadcasting. They also offer corporate training and distance earning.

Student interactive capabilities include class pace feedback and text messaging capabilities. The class content can be downloaded or retrieved from a CD before class or streamed at the time of the class. Classes can be recorded in their entirety or in various sections for later playback. Co-facilitation is an option, and facilitators can draw upon quizzing, polling, and whiteboard tools as needed. Content can be added to the program by the user. PowerPoint, flash animation, and graphic files can be added as needed, and revisions can be sent to MShow content developers up to six hours before your presentation begins. Multiple servers running MShow will act as a single system. The report generator will send reports on course enrollment, student records, and testing data.

Product Features




25% Financial Services

25% Learning/Training





� Course Content:








– System manager is responsible for recording class

Features for



– Yes. Leader and MShow support are usually not in the same place.


– Quizzing

– Polling

– Whiteboard





– Yes. All content is pre-cached prior to show start time.

Features for Course

Developers


– Yes


– PowerPoint

– Flash animation

– Graphics

– IPix files


– Revisions are sent to MShow content developers up to 6 hours before a show starts.


– None



– Yes


– Yes


– Yes



– Student record



– Oracle

– Access

– Sequent




– Yes







Information Systems

Administration


– Yes. A test is done when the user logs into a show.


– No. Users just need a phone or an Internet connection.


� Full-duplex

� Protocols:


– T.120 (data)



� Polling

� Quizzing





Interface Can Be

Customized

Yes



Yes



(something to be inserted here?)

Server Requirements � Service hosted by MShow.com

� MShow is based on a Windows platform.

Client Requirements An Internet connection or a telephone

Macintosh Supported Only when customized for each customer and show

UNIX Supported No

Global Capabilities Can be customized for languages and time zones on a case-by-case basis.




Largest show consisted of 500 unique users with over 300,000 total viewers.



N/A

Recommended Class Size Up to 5,000

Service Offerings Service offerings can be customized for the customer.

Product Support None at this time

Three Major Strengths 1. Reach

2. Impact

3. Service

Financial Status of Firm Private, with the following major investors:

� Enron Communications

� Knowledge Universe

� Sepulveda Capitol

Pricing

Basis of Pricing

� Pricing is based on number of connections on a per minute basis ($0.30–$0.10/minute).

� Large shows are generally priced on a flat fee service model.

Pricing Scenarios

� Subscription

– A company pays a flat fee per month and uses as much MShow as they can for the month, regardless of content and number of participants.

� Event-based

– A company pays per event, per minute, per participant.

� On average, shows that contain streaming video are 20% more than shows using audio only.

� The per-minute charges above include video streaming.

Contact Info

MShow

1745 Shea Center Drive, Suite 200 Highlands Ranch, CO 80126 303.730.4900 tel 303.720.4999 fax [email protected] www.mshow.com


OnLive Audio Servers – Communities.com



10,000+ servers installed

Communities.com furnishes real-time, rich media collaboration, and common tools for many areas of business. These include large-scale affairs, Web page tours, online evaluation, conferencing, and games. Fully scriptable surroundings give opportunity for customization, embedded media, and e-commerce in a varied purpose environment to include sponsorships, product placement, and corporate or educational branding.

The OnLive Audio Conferencing Server 300 is a standardized server software enabling large audio conferences over standard IP networks. OnLive 200 Audio Community Server utilizes multi-user voice disciplines that enable large groups to communicate and act jointly using the OnLive Talker over the Internet or corporate intranets. OnLive Talker allows users to have group discussions on any Web page.

Primary markets for OnLive are 90 percent consumer and 10 percent business and education. Pupil interactions available include raise hand and text messaging capabilities. The content can be sent as a download, retrieved from a CD prior to class, or streamed at the time of the class. Classes can be recorded in their entirety or in various sections for later playback by the learner or systems manager.

Co-facilitation is an option, and facilitators can draw upon quizzing, polling, and whiteboard tools as needed. The interface is customizable. Extensive plug-in and API architecture allow components to negotiate and operate as one with external services such as databases. The plug-in architecture allows for exchange of information with most server-based and database applications.

The server requirements are: Windows NT 4.0 or 2000, Solaris, and Linux. However, the only client requirement is a PC. This product is UNIX supported, but limited in the Macintosh area. The largest implementation to date is 200 simultaneous connections with 6,000 attendees. This encompasses 1,700 simultaneous live connections for a non-educational event. OnLive’s major strengths are full-duplex audio in association with intellectual property rights, a fully qualified audio Q&A queue, and embeddable streaming media. To accommodate 100 users, the pricing structure is $10,000 for a full-duplex voice server.

Product Features


Product Model � OnLive Audio Conferencing Server 300 is a standards-based server software that supports large-group audio conferences over IP networks.

� OnLive 200 Audio Community Server 200 utilizes patent-pending multi-user voice technology that enables large groups of people to communicate and collaborate with their own voices using the OnLive Talker across the Internet or corporate intranets.

� OnLive Talker allows users to have group conversations on any public or private Web page.




Primary Markets 90% Consumer

10% Business and Education


– Raise hand



� Course Content:




– Yes, class can be recorded it its entirety and in sections, including:

� Text chat

� Whiteboard

– Learner or system manager can record class

Features for



– Yes, depending on permissions


– Whiteboard






– Yes, with separate browser window

Features for Course

Developers


– No


– Web-based files

– Type depends on creators Web tools


– N/A


– N/A

Features for Course



– No


– N/A




– No




– N/A


– N/A





– Send e-mail to groups (facilitators or students) from within product during class session (no e-mail client included)





– Microphone Trainer

– Training Wizard


– No



– Using TCP/UDP:

� POTS - Plain Old Telephone System or Services

� ISDN

� T1

� Satellite

� Full-duplex

� Protocols:


– T.120 (data)

– Proprietary audio





� Quizzing


Interface Can Be

Customized Yes


Required

Yes




Products

� Extensive plug-in and API architecture allows components to negotiate and interoperate with external services such as databases for e-commerce, collaboration, and streaming media.

� Plug-in architecture allows for communication and exchange of data with most server-based and database applications.

Server Requirements � Windows NT 4.0 or 2000

� Solaris

� Linux

Client Requirements PC

Macintosh Supported Limited

UNIX Supported Yes

Global Capabilities Pan-Asia solution in the works

Largest Full


200 simultaneous connections



6,000 attendees

1,700 simultaneous live connections for a non-educational event

Recommended Class Size 5–15

Service Offerings � Installation support

� Scripting training

� Moderation training

� Moderation

� Hosting

Product Support N/A

Three Major Strengths Private

Financial Status of Firm 1. Full-duplex audio with intellectual property rights from 1995 with fully moderated audio including hand raising, Q&A queue, and pass the microphone.

2. Embeddable streaming media, e-commerce, and Web links allowing for Web page pushing (tours).

3. Reality immersion: Positional audio, distance attenuated audio, lip synch, and emotions.


Pricing

Basis of Pricing

Pricing is based on the number of concurrent users.

Pricing Scenarios





� Non-educators currently pay $500 to $3,000/month, plus revenue share.

� No educators use Communities.com’s technologies in a hosted environment.

� $10,000 for full-duplex voice server

� Installation, setup, consulting, and maintenance are extra, if required.

� No specific corporate program exists.

� The product is not sold as a corporate training tool, but can be customized for usage as one.

Contact Info

Communities.com

10101 North DeAnza Blvd. Cupertino, CA 95014 408-342-9500 tel 408-777-9200 fax [email protected] www.thepalace.com/corporate


PictureTalk Distance Training Server 3.0 – Pixion



200

PictureTalk from Pixion has been in the marketplace since 1996. This large investor has holdings in several other computer-related organizations as well. With this product, you can demonstrate a product for a client who is 3,000 miles away or reach hundreds of people around the world. You will be able to train your sales force without taking them away from their work. Software demonstrations, slide shows, text files, and spreadsheet data can be presented live to internal staff at remote locations.

This software is used mainly for internal sales training applications. PictureTalk allows you to seize an application and present it in real-time to any kind of audience. Having been used for new product introductions, off-site real-time product demonstrations, and diagnosing and resolving PC problems, PictureTalk knows its way around the industry. It enables sales and marketing departments to deliver live presentations through the Internet. Technical presentations are handled expediently. Their primary markets are 75 percent sales and marketing, 20 percent training, and 5 percent support.

Students can interact through raise hand and text messaging capabilities. Course content can be downloaded or taken by a CD prior to class time. It can also be streamed at the time of the class.

The program control is based on password authorization. Presenters are able to take advantage of the quizzing, polling, Web surfing, and application viewing tools when giving a training program. Plus, they can have control of the microphone, use student pointers to direct class discussion, and eject disorderly students. Reporting capabilities include course enrollment, quizzing/polling, and attendance. No IS support is required for installation.

Requirements on the server side include:

� Windows NT, Sun Solaris 2.x, Linux

� Microsoft IIS 4.0+, Netscape Enterprise server, Apache

� 256 MB RAM

� 40 MB (or more depending on activity logs)

Client requirement are:

� Windows 32-bit (Windows 95, 98, NT, 2000)

� MacOS (8.x +)

� UNIX (Solaris 2.x, current beta version of Linux)

� Java Applet

� Netscape 4.x or Internet Explorer 4.x (or higher)

The largest full implementation to date is with over 20,000 users on five servers at 500 concurrent connections. Licensing includes installation, training, and customization consulting. Pixion’s major strengths are cross-platform for presenting and attending and multi-speed connection management. The pricing structure is $5,000 for a custom Web site that integrates with that of the customer’s, enabling up to 100 connections. This setup will include Web registration, auto e-mail response, training, and customer support. Multiple


events are offered at $25 per connection per hour. The price is negotiated for 1,000 concurrent or named users.

Product Features




20% Training

5% Support


– Raise hand



� Course Content:





– Facilitator and system manager can record class

Features for



– Yes. The control is based on password authorization; so, anyone with the proper password can facilitate, control, or present in a session.


– Quizzing

– Polling


– Application viewing



– Turn on or off students pointers for group to see

– Give/take control of presentation to/from student

– Eject unruly participants

– Monitor each connection for performance


– Yes.



– No


– N/A




– N/A


– N/A



– N/A


– N/A


– Yes



– Quizzing/polling results

– Attendance


– N/A


– None








Information Systems

Administration


– No (some say “no” … some say “none”


– No




� Full-duplex

� Protocols:

– N/A

Collaboration Features � Ability to lead class in Web surfing


� Polling

� Quizzing




� Application viewing (one-to-many and many-to-many)

Interface Can Be

Customized

Yes


Required

Yes. Presentations can be viewed through a Java Applet in the browser.



� API and ActiveX controls for integration into most Web-enabled applications

Server Requirements � Windows NT, Sun Solaris 2.x, Linux

� Microsoft IIS 4.0+, Netscape Enterprise server, Apache

� 256 MB RAM

� 40 MB (or more depending on activity logs)

Client Requirements � Windows 32-bit

– Windows 95, 98, NT, 2000

� MacOS

– 8.x +

� UNIX

– Solaris 2.x

– Linux (currently in beta)

� Java Applet

– Netscape 4.x or Internet Explorer 4.x (or higher)

Macintosh Supported Yes. Participants on Macintosh systems can also control and present from their systems.

UNIX Supported Yes, on both the server and client side

Global Capabilities No


20,000+ users

5 servers

500 concurrent connections



� 250 on a single server in a single session

� Servers can be clustered together if scalability is needed.

Recommended Class Size � This depends on level of interactivity desired in the presentation.

– For lecturing with some polling, 200+ groups can be managed fairly effectively.

– If the floor is going to be passed around and there is a high level of interaction involved, sessions should be kept to 20–25 participants.

Service Offerings � Installation and training included as a part of the licensing

� Consulting services for customization and implementation



Product Support � Technical services available directly from Pixion 7am–6pm Monday through Friday, plus 24/7 emergency pager response

Three Major Strengths 1. Cross-platform (presenting and attending)

2. Management of multi-speed connections to a session

3. Easy to use with unobtrusive user interface


Pricing

Basis of Pricing

Number of concurrent connections

Pricing Scenarios


of Seats


License



or named users

� One-time Event:

– $5,000 for up to 100 connections

– Includes custom Web site that integrates with the customer’s, Web registration, auto e-mail response, training, customer support, attendance log, monitoring, and polling

� Multiple Events

– $25 per connection per hour, plus setup fee for hosted companies

� $60,000 � Negotiated

Contact Info

Pixion, Inc.

4234 Hacienda Dr., Suite 200 Pleasanton, CA 94588 925.467.5300 tel 925.467.5310 fax [email protected] www.pixion.com


PlaceWare Conference Center 2000 – PlaceWare



515

PlaceWare is used by HP’s E-Learning-on-Tap for a training solution. Therefore, it is easy to see the PlaceWare solution is focused just on generic Web conferencing. They are a visibly aggressive marketer doing special promotions and allow you to have a PlaceWare session for up to five attendees at no cost whatsoever. A product of Xerox Palo Alto Research Center, they give presenters the opportunity to create large or small interactive multimedia presentations with this product. Audiences have the ability to ask questions, vote, and otherwise interact using Java-enabled Web browsers. The main points of interest offered by this software are slide display area, question manager, and moderator console. However, there is no audio plug-in or slide preparation for Mac.

PlaceWare Auditorium runs on Java-enabled browsers. A PlaceWare plug-in is required for audio. A single server can support thousands of simultaneous users. With the exception of audio, PlaceWare Auditorium crosses over any firewall that does not block Java code downloading. This includes departmental LANs and worldwide networks using TCP/IP connections for data and UDP for audio. The PlaceWare Online Seminar Series helps you to take your first steps into the world of live Web conferencing events from the comfort of your own desk. You can encounter PlaceWare live by simply clicking on the register button adjacent to the seminar you want to try. Their seminars are free of charge. After registration, the only requirements are a 28.8 Internet connection, a Web browser, and a phone.

While PlaceWare is used for training, it is not considered an e-learning tool. Instead, the market coming forth here is called Web conferencing. This is an entirely new environment offering a way for businesses to efficiently communicate important information in an expedited manner. With this technology, live interactive meetings can be conducted with anyone using only a Web browser and a phone. Simply put, a Web conference is the blending of a telephone call with live visuals and participant interaction. Just choose a PowerPoint presentation from your hard drive, upload it into the application, and then let the audience know the URL where they can find the meeting.

You are able to present any type of material through Web conferencing that you could present in-person. Types of rich content you can present include, PowerPoint slides, annotation tools, live software demonstrations, polling, whiteboards, Web tours, and streaming audio and video. The presenter has full control of the meeting, including content and interactivity, thus ensuring satisfaction on their part. With PlaceWare Conference Center 2000, Web conferencing can be delivered to your customers. Customers can simply enter the appropriate URL into their browsers and be immediately able to participate in PlaceWare’s offerings.

Since this is a hosted e-service, there is no need devote IT resources on the customer’s part. PlaceWare is a good option for those technically challenged organizations for which instruction is a secondary problem. There are no educational tools (such as quizzes and reports) available here. However, the lack of application sharing opportunities does limit this tool’s capabilities.

There are two modes of PlaceWare—Auditorium Place for over 25 attendees and Meeting Place for fewer than 25 participants. The user interface is very easy to use. No plug-ins are


required, so learners can easily join a session. This tool sells easily to sales, marketing, or HR departments that are not heavily into training. There is no extensive IS assessment period or firewall hassles to deal with. However, you must remember that this is not a robust training tool. PlaceWare’s primary markets are sales and marketing, financial services, and professional services, in that order.

Student features include raise hand and text messaging abilities. Course content will be streamed at the time of class, and recording capabilities are included since the instructor can record the class. The instructor features include the fact that the program can be run from two separate locations, polling, whiteboard, and application sharing. Presentation files can be imported through PowerPoint (plug-in required). A report will be generated that indicates who is logged on to each session. An automated invitation may be sent through Outlook using customer’s address book.

There are no server requirements since PlaceWare hosts the servers. The client requirements are:

� Pentium-based PC with Windows 95, 98, or NT

� Sun SPARCstation with Solaris 2.x or later

� Netscape Navigator 3.01+ or Microsoft Internet Explorer 3.02+

� 28.8 kbps or faster

This product is supported in UNIX; time zones are supported, but not languages. The largest number of simultaneous users with this product is 2,500. The three major strengths are a browser-based e-service, a virtual environment, and scalability. Pricing structures are based on concurrent users for an annual hosted service. Annual base pricing begins at $400 per concurrent user, beginning with a 10-user license. Thus, it would be $40,000 for 100 concurrent users and $400,000 for 1,000 concurrent users. Organizations are responsible for the cost of conference calls and bridges.

Critique

This is my take on their position. PlaceWare is well positioned to go after non-technical organizations and divisions within organizations for which training is a secondary issue. They focus on a hosting service model that is well suited for organizations that lack IS support but want a fast solution. PlaceWare does not offer educational tools such as quizzes, reports, or templates. This makes it less a training tool than a presentation tool. The pricing model is easy to understand at $300-375 per seat, but organizations must calculate the cost of conference calls and bridges (this may be a considerable factor for international organizations). The lack of robust application sharing tools makes this a tool of limited interest to high-tech firms who require more than demonstration capabilities.

Product Model

Auditorium Place

Large group tool for live events delivered using Web and a conference bridge

Meeting Place

Tool for facilitating small groups using Web and a conference bridge

A modest-to-weak set of tools for conducting back-end operations is included in the product.


User Reviews

Basic production of a presentation using PlaceWare is easy when the initial development is done in PowerPoint. Some of the best features of PlaceWare are AVI capture of product demonstrations to broadcast live. Hands-on exercises are easy to develop and download. The instructors are challenged to learn new skills with this product, but the response has been positive. Instructors will generally get up to speed after a few days of practice.

Industry feedback shows that implementing the training service tool is fairly easy using PlaceWare hosting services. This product is Java-based and requires no audience downloads or plug-ins. Customers appear to like it and can be oriented to the audience interaction tools in a few minutes at the start of a learning event. While strong recommendations are given for delivering technical training, the main recommendations for improvement involve minor UI tweaking. The use of moderators is a good idea when trying to facilitate text questions and chat during live presentations. Even two to four moderators supporting a live online training event is not out of the question.

Instructors find this product easy to use and understand. The development of live online learning course material is no more difficult than creating paper-based material. Many instructors enjoy using PlaceWare to present PowerPoint slides. The difficulty arises in effectively presenting the material so that it is enticing. This factor makes creating material for online presentation more time consuming. However, one of the best things about PlaceWare is that it is simple, and the user does not have to learn a variety of new functions. Because it is straightforward, it is easy to use.

Product Features



Primary Markets 60% High-technology Sales and Marketing

30% Financial Services

10% Professional Services


– Raise hand




� Course Content:









– Yes. PlaceWare enables multiple presenters to facilitate a class regardless of location. There is no limit to the number of facilitators in one class.


– Polling

– Whiteboard



– Ability to shut off IRC and e-forums during class


– N/A


– Yes



– Yes. Several types of content can be created on-the-fly including:

� Web pages

� Polls

� Whiteboards

� Text slides

� Live application demonstrations


– PowerPoint


– N/A


– None

Features for Course



– N/A


– N/A


– Yes


– Reports on who is logged on to the session, for how long, and from what IP address. E-mail address and company name can also be added.


– PlaceWare develops HTML files that can be imported directly into Excel and then to any database.


– None




– Send e-mail to groups (facilitators or students) from within product during class session using the reporting mechanism








– No


– No. PlaceWare offers Conference Center 2000 as an e-service that requires no installation.




– Audio can be delivered via an audio conference call or through streaming audio.

� Protocols:

– Since PlaceWare is a browser-based Java application, it is based on Internet standards.





� Polling


� Private chat

� Address audience questions privately or to the entire audience

� Audio or video streaming through Conference Center 2000

Interface Can Be

Customized

Yes. PlaceWare offers companies the ability to brand the console and other entry pages with the company’s logo.


Required

� No plug-ins are required of anyone to participate in a Web conference (presenter, audience, or facilitator).

� There is a PowerPoint plug-in for the presenter to add polling slides (can be instantly added during a presentation), name slides, and upload presenter picture in advance of a presentation.


Products

� PowerPoint

� Web slides

� Live application demonstrations



� Automated invitation will work with Outlook to leverage a user’s address book or browser e-mail client.

Server Requirements PlaceWare offers its Web conferencing solution as a service. There are no server requirements since PlaceWare hosts the servers. PlaceWare has been transitioning its business model from an enterprise software license model to a hosted application service rental model.

Client Requirements Presenters and Audience Members:

� Pentium-based PC with Windows 95, 98, or NT

� Sun SPARCstation with Solaris 2.x or later

� Netscape Navigator 3.01+ or Microsoft Internet Explorer 3.02+

� 28.8 kbps or faster


UNIX Supported Yes

Global Capabilities Time zones supported, but not languages

Largest Full


No figures available



2,500 simultaneous users

Recommended Class Size 2–2,500 users, depending on the application of the meeting

Service Offerings � Training and consulting

� Event management services

� Technical support

Product Support � Technical support phone number or e-mail

� Customer user group

Three Major Strengths 1. Browser-based e-service. Anyone can access an Internet meeting by entering a URL and picking up the phone. It is not a client/server solution. This makes it ideal for communicating both inside and outside of a company with customers, partners, prospects, and investors.

2. Two places to meet delivering on both small meetings as well as large-scale meetings. The virtual environment is customized to facilitate effective communications based on meeting type.

3. Scalable. Many types of meetings can be held with PlaceWare’s ability to scale up to 2,500 users.

Financial Status of Firm Private, with the following major investors:

� Bank of America

� Interwest Partners

� Apex Investment Partners

� Bay Partners



� TransCosmos

� Gabriel Venture Partners.

(PlaceWare has filed its S-1; lead is Credit Suisse.)

Pricing

Basis of Pricing

Pricing is based on concurrent users for an annual hosted service.

Pricing Scenarios

� Base pricing is $400 per concurrent user per year.

� PlaceWare starts at a 10-user license for one year.

� PlaceWare is sold as a hosted service. The price includes hosting of the application by PlaceWare, as well as technical support for all users.

� PlaceWare also sells its servers on a per event basis. Per-event pricing is custom priced.





� $40,000 for one year of 100 concurrent users (unlimited Internet meetings)

� $4,000 for 10 seats for one year

� $400,000

Contact Info

PlaceWare, Inc.

295 North Bernardo Avenue Mountain View, CA 94043 888.526.6170 toll-free 650.526.6100 tel 650.526.6199 fax [email protected] www.placeware.com


WebCore 1.02 – Caliber Learning Network


WebCore eKnowledge is an outsourced corporate training and communication solution that enables clients to design, author, and publish programs for large-scale global participants. The foundation of this platform is the eKnowledge database, which is designed to manage complex combinations of client missions. Next, they mediate real-time program interactivity across all user groups. The highest layer represents the Internet-connected delivery, participation, and assessment tools. Training and education here feature streaming audio/video, synchronized program elements, and supporting text functions.

Caliber's WebCore Premiere or Express Studios originate the programming. These studios are managed by a studio technician and contain the facilitator workstation, video cameras, microphones, audio/visual equipment, encoder tools, and standard set design. Programs may be delivered live or hosted. Detailed registration, attendance, activity, and participation reports are generated by the reporting engine. The WebCore platform is an outsourced technology welcomed by Caliber through Microsoft NT and NetShow servers. Live broadcasts can be originated from one of nine WebCore Express and Premiere Studios encountered all over North America. Caliber can also adapt your existing studios into a WebCore origination point. They also maintain a network of high-tech classrooms throughout North America and Europe and support live simulcast broadcasts. There will be additional fees encountered for center-based delivery.

Their major markets are 70 percent sales and marketing with 30 percent IT. Student interactions include raise hand and text messaging. The course content can be downloaded prior to class or streamed at the appropriate point, and the system manager is in control of class recording. The program can be co-facilitated from two separate locations, but presenter audio/video, slide push, and polling functionality are driven from a single studio location. HTML, AVI, and Shockwave can be used to add further information to the presentation. Course enrollment, student record, and test score information can be accessed through the report generator. No IS support is needed for installation, and full-duplex audio is available over the Internet. There is no Macintosh or UNIX capabilities with this product. The largest implementation to date has been 150 events with 150 participants. Their major strengths are listed as interactivity, product variety, and ease of use. The price of $36,000 is for 10 classrooms of 23 students each in a 3-hour session.

Product Features




30% IT


– Raise hand






� Course Content:




– Yes, class can be recorded in its entirety or in sections

– System manager can record class



– Yes. Caliber's WebCore Online Expert application allows Subject Matter Experts (SME) to facilitate/support live or on-demand program communication from any Internet-connected computer desktop. This program is downloaded to the SME's computer via the Internet. Presenter audio/video, slide push, and polling functionality are driven from a single studio location.


– Polling

– Whiteboard



– Assign students to breakout or team rooms on-the-fly. (This feature is currently under development as part of enhanced breakout support and will be available in the next release of WebCore, currently scheduled for Q3 2000.)

� Communications management:

– Presenter/facilitator can forward participant questions/comments to subject matter experts for off-camera, private response to participants.


– Yes.

Features for Course

Developers


– Yes


– The WebCore Course Designer application allows course designers to convert existing PowerPoint presentations to Web-ready format (PNG, JPG or HTML) as well import the following file formats to the course map:

� Web images (GIF, JPG, PNG)

� HTML

� PDF

� AVI

� Flash

� Shockwave

– Designers can also create quiz elements, add URL pointers, and support text content in the WebCore Course Designer.



� Content may authored in:

– PowerPoint 97 or 2000

– HTML (MS FrontPage, HomeSite, Dreamweaver)

– Text editors

– MS Word (converted to HTML)

– Graphic design tools (Photoshop, Illustrator)


– Revisions to existing on-demand courses are made using the Course Designer tool. Programs are recorded at the topic level, allowing designers or facilitators to update/edit existing on-demand course material at a granular level without having to re-record the entire course/program. Once the edits are made, the WebCore Course Publisher is used to re-publish the course updates.


– Caliber's WebCore Participant application interface provides a standard template for Caliber courses/programs in which the streaming A/V, slide elements, and communication functionality are delivered to course participants.

– The Course Designer tool supports presentations created using PowerPoint templates.

– Caliber's instructional design team provides clients with design guidelines for program delivery in the WebCore environment.

Features for Course



– N/A. Caliber is an eKnowledge ASP and hosts the WebCore technology platform on behalf of its clients.


– Yes


– Yes



– Student record



– Participation report shows student activity down to the element (slide) level


– MS SQL 7.0

– WebCore PCM (Personal Course Manager) reporting tool allows reports to be formatted and delivered as a delimited text file (CSV) for import into statistical, spreadsheet, and/or database applications.




– The WebCore PCM is integrated with CyberCash CashRegister 3.0 transaction authorization and processing system.










– WebCore includes a browser-based system diagnostic test, which includes audio/video.


– Not typically. The WebCore Participant application is browser-based (IE 4.0 or higher or Netscape 4.51 or higher) and requires Windows Media Player v. 6.01 or higher.


� Full-duplex

� Protocols:


– Frame Relay lines (data)




� Polling

� Quizzing






� Application demonstration. Caliber's WebCore eKnowledge solution allows presenters to push pre-recorded software demonstration movies (AVI format) to the participant desktops. Participants can work through the exercise on a local version of the software on his/her machine.

Interface Can Be

Customized

Yes


Required

Yes. A media player is required.




Products

� WebCore is integrated with the CyberCash CashRegister 3 transaction processing/authorization system.

� Caliber currently has content partnerships with the following universities:

– The Wharton School/University of Pennsylvania

– USC Marshall School of Business

– Johns Hopkins University

– Georgetown University

– Babson College

– Columbia University/Teacher's College.

Server Requirements WebCore is not licensed to clients to install, manage, or maintain on their servers. Caliber is an eKnowledge application service provider (ASP) and hosts its proprietary WebCore platform on behalf of its clients.

Client Requirements � Pentium 166 MHz or higher

� 32 MB RAM minimum

� Windows 95, 98 or NT 4.0

� Internet Explorer 4.0 or Netscape 4.51 minimum

� Windows Media Player 4.51 or higher

� 800 x 600 screen resolution, 256 color minimum (16-bit recommended)

� 56 kbps modem, plus 56 kbps dial-up support minimum

Macintosh Supported Caliber's platform is provided through an ASP (application service provider) model. It does not interact or support any other element. As a result, it does not matter what the client is running.

UNIX Supported Technically, Caliber’s software does not interact or support UNIX, but it does not matter if that is what the client has. All the client has to have is a 56K modem and a browser.


Largest Full

Implementation to Date 150 events

150 participants



1,500

Recommended Class Size 1,500

(Specific larger-scale broadcast needs in excess of 5,000 concurrent users can be met through distribution partners.)

Service Offerings � Program hosting and distribution

� Program management

� Instructional design

� New media training



� Web design and development

� Custom content development

Product Support � Online system diagnostic test

� Technical FAQ's

� Technical support toll-free call center and e-mail

Three Major Strengths 1. High level of interactivity

2. Variety of products: in-class, live-on Web, on-demand

3. Easy to use

Financial Status of Firm Public (Nasdaq:CLBR)

Pricing

Basis of Pricing

Pricing is based on amount of content and number of users.

Pricing Scenarios

SCENARIO 1 – Hosting SCENARIO 2 – Small Number of

Seats


License



� $1,250 per hour to originate and $450 per month to host

� $36,000 for 10 classrooms with up

to 23 students each for a 3-hour session

� Not applicable; Caliber is an ASP.

Contact Info

Caliber Learning Network, Inc. 509 South Exeter Street Baltimore, MD 21202 800.580.9385 toll-free 410.843.1200 fax http://www.caliber.com


Tier 3 – Other Players

You will find that the products in this category are not as well known or feature rich as the products in Tier 2 or Tier 1. Some of these may have instructional capabilities, or they may not. We were simply not able to provide as much thorough information on these products because they are not among the most popular choices with the training audience. We are trying to be on the fence by providing this Tier 3. On the one hand, we do not want to ignore the products in this category; but, on the other hand, we are in no way certain they are worthy of full consideration. Therefore, we want to make sure you are equipped with at least the background information about these companies and products. From the information we were able to gather, we have listed their main attributes.

� Astound Conference Center 2.0

� Embrace 3.6

� NetMeeting 3.0

� Prep Vision 3.0


Astound Conference Center 2.0 – Astound, Inc.


Number of Active Hosted Accounts

3,000

Astound has been a well-used presentation tool since the mid 1990s. The company has now expanded with additional offerings such as the Astound Conference Center for synchronous training. They are a leading provider of Web conferencing, collaboration, and just-in-time learning solutions. With this product, you will be able to conduct Web conferences, collaborate on virtual documents, hold virtual seminars, and deliver online training over your browser. Astound’s primary markets are corporate training, sales and marketing, and project management, in that order.

Features helpful to students include raise hand, text messaging, and the ability to take notes online. Course content is to be downloaded or taken from a CD-ROM before class or streamed in at the appropriate time. In addition, the class may be recorded to play back later. Instructors in two separate locations can monitor the hand raise, feedback, and chat capabilities. Quizzing, polling, whiteboard, and application tools are available to the instructor. Creation changes can be easily uploaded to the Web browser using a variety of compatible file formats, including: Ami Pro, Lotus, Microsoft Word for Windows or Macintosh, WordPerfect for Windows or Macintosh, HTML, Microsoft Access, Microsoft Excel, and Paintbrush.

A report on the class’ test scores will be generated, and you can access some of the top collaboration features, including whiteboard, application sharing, polling, quizzing, full-motion video, and threaded discussion/e-forum. Since the solution is hosted by Astound, there is no need for a server on the client side. However, if you require it, you must have Windows NT 4.0 with Service Pack 4 (or higher), Microsoft IIS, Pentium 400, 128 MB memory, and 1 GB disk space. Otherwise, you will only need Windows 4.0 or higher. This product is also supported by Macintosh. Time zones are supported in the software makeup. The largest implementation has been 1,000 participants per server in a multiple server environment. Their major strengths appear to be that they are browser based, allow for improved retention, and are easy to use. It will cost $30,000 for 100 users in a hosted system and $300,000 for 1,000 concurrent or named users.

User Reviews

Many feel that nothing can be easier than preparing and offering a presentation with Astound. The presenter simply visits the Astound.com Website, schedules a class or meeting, and chooses the presentation to deliver. They also note that it is even easier for attendees who simply go to the Astound.com Website and enter their choice.

Product Features



Primary Markets 50% Corporate Training and Communication


20% Project Management




– Feedback on pace of class via chat text messages


– Send text message to other students (the presenter can turn this on/off any time)


� Course Content:




– Yes, class can be recorded in its entirety or in sections

– Learner or facilitator can record class



– Anyone from anywhere can be a facilitator

– Unlimited attendees can be facilitators


– Polling



– Ability to shut off IRC and e-forums during class


– N/A


– During a Web tour, the teacher can view the Web page before it is displayed to the students.

Features for Course

Developers


– Yes


– Presentations can be created in PowerPoint or Astound.

– Using application sharing, any program can be displayed to the students.

– Pre-recorded full motion video can be imported and will play automatically as part of the presentation.

– Web tours can be used to show anything on the Web including PDF, video, and documents.


– Content created in PowerPoint is revised within the application and loaded into the conference after changes have been made.

– Web pages are revised and accessed via Web tours.


– PowerPoint templates





– Each server generally handles different tasks so they are administered separately, but they operate as a single system.


– Yes


– Yes


– Student record

– Survey results


– Oracle

– Access

– ODBC

– SQL


– Planned for Q2 2000








Information Systems

Administration


– Yes. There is a browser test page for audio.


– No. The install is wizard-driven.

– Yes, for server




– ISDN

– T1

� Audio is one-way if delivered via the Internet/intranet (presenter/moderator to viewers).

� Half-duplex

� Protocols:

– RealNetworks Real Player

– Microsoft Media Player



Collaboration Features � Whiteboard (via application sharing)




� Polling

� Quizzing





� Annotations: ability to highlight or point to things in a presentation

� Archiving

Interface Can Be

Customized

Yes. Pages, colors, text, and logos can be customized.



No. Only the moderator requires a plug-in if utilizing application sharing.



� Content can be created using PowerPoint or Astound, and can be uploaded to Astound’s servers.

Server Requirements � Solution is hosted by Astound.com.

� If a customer requires a server version, requirements are:

– Windows NT 4.0 with Service Pack 4 (or higher)

– Microsoft IIS

– Pentium 400

– 128MB memory

– 1 GB disk space

Client Requirements 4.0 or higher browser


Global Capabilities Time zones are currently supported.


Hosted service supports 1,000 participants per server in a multiple server environment.



10,000

Recommended Class Size 5–5,000

Service Offerings Astound’s solution can be hosted by the customer or by Astound and the company’s Professional Services group helps in any aspect of the deployment.



Product Support � Support is available directly from Astound vie e-Mail, fax, and phone.

� FAQ’s are available on Astound’s Web site.

Three Major Strengths 1. Browser based. No software required.

2. Maintains any high impact multimedia components in the browser for improved retention.

3. Easy to use.


Pricing

Basis of Pricing

Pricing is based on number of concurrent users.

Pricing Scenarios





� $30,000 � $37,500, plus 15% annual maintenance

� $3,000 installation

� $300,000

Contact Info

Astound, Inc. 5155 Spectrum Way, Unit 5 Mississauga, Ontario L4W 5A1 905.602.4000 tel 905.602.4001 fax [email protected] www.astound.com


Embrace 3.6 – OutReach Technologies



N/A

OutReach Technologies is a provider of Web-based interactive platforms. The Embrace software adds live voice to e-business processes and Web sites, thus allowing online team collaboration, interactive remote selling, and online distance learning. Companies use Embrace to interact and communicate more practically in distributed environments. Embrace is installed on a Windows NT server, and telephone and data lines are connected to the server enabling use of the client’s existing network, telephone, and Internet connections. The following capabilities are bundled into one solution with Embrace:

� Audio and data conferencing

� Application sharing

� One-on-one or group sessions

� E-mail scheduling and notification

� Document attachment capability

� User controlled access and scheduling

� Management reporting

Their primary market is that of service providers who resell this product to end users. It is then used in telecommunications, applications, and the Internet. Student capabilities include raise hand, text messaging, and taking notes online. The course content can be downloaded before class, streamed at the time of class, or taken from a CD that was shipped in advance. The entire class can be recorded by the student or teacher. Separate locations can co-facilitate the program. Each facilitator will have access to quizzing, polling, whiteboard, and microphone control capabilities. Creation changes can be easily uploaded to the Web browser using a variety of compatible file formats including: Ami Pro, Lotus, Microsoft Word for Windows or Macintosh, WordPerfect for Windows or Macintosh, HTML, Microsoft Access, Microsoft Excel, and Paintbrush. Testing reports will be generated upon demand.

IS support is required on the server side as is the following: Pentium III 600 MHz or higher, 256 MB 100 MHz SDRAM or higher, 9.1 GB SCSI hard disk, and standard CD ROM and 3.5” 1.44 MB floppy disk drives. The largest full implementation to date is 1,248 seats with 192 concurrent users. Their major strengths appear to be the provision of a mixed media package, ability to access existing infrastructures, and the open application programming interface. Pricing is approximately $1,000 to $1,500 per concurrent user.

Product Features



Primary Markets � Embrace is sold through service providers who in turn resell the product to end-users.



� 80% of Embrace sales are to Service Providers, including

– Telecommunications

– Applications

– Internet (what about the other 20%?)


– Raise hand


� Course Content:



– Yes, with some programming, class can be recorded in its entirety or in sections.

– System manager records class.

Features for



– Yes. Embrace supports multiple remote instructors.







– Yes. The facilitator can preview the content offline before pushing the content to the online session.

Features for Course

Developers


– Yes. Course content can be developed in any Windows application and published in Embrace.


– Any Windows application, including:

� Word

� Excel

� PowerPoint


– Revisions to course material would be made in any source Windows application.


– None

Features for Course



– Yes, via Collaboration Cluster Manager


– N/A


– No




– None


– Send e-mail to groups (facilitators or students) from within product when scheduling the session or via the Roster

– Limit class size by limiting the number of seats available in the session or locking the session

– Classes can be posted and deleted within the Detailed Schedule and the daily schedule






– No


– No

Audio Features � Delivered on POTS - Plain Old Telephone System or Services

� Full-duplex

� T.120 protocol (data)

Collaboration Features � Application sharing (one-to-many and many-to-many)




Yes



No for client

NetMeeting is required by instructor for application sharing.


Products

� Microsoft NetMeeting

� Microsoft Outlook and Exchange

Server Requirements � Hardware:

– Pentium III 600 MHz or higher

– 256 MB 100 MHz SDRAM or higher

– 9.1 GB SCSI hard disk

– NIC 10/100 BaseT Ethernet

– 56K V.90 modem

– Standard CD ROM and 3.5” 1.44 MB floppy disk drives

� Software:

– MS Windows NT Server 4.0 with Service Pack 5

– Microsoft IIS 4.0

– Microsoft SQL Server 7.0 (optional if standalone server configuration)

– Outlook 98 or Outlook 2000 (when MailLink for MS Exchange option is purchased)

– PcAnywhere for remote diagnostics



Client Requirements � Telephone

� Web browser


UNIX Supported No



1,248 seats



192

Recommended Class Size Up to 192

Service Offerings � On-site support from OutReach Technologies is available for $1,000-$2,000 per day plus expenses.

� Training is available starting at $1,500 per user for a 4-hour session (distance learning format).

Product Support � Phone support Monday through Friday 8am–8pm Eastern or optional 24/7 support

� Online support (including SupportNet)

� Software maintenance agreement

Three Major Strengths 1. Embrace provides an integrated, mixed-media communications package, including live telephone quality voice, data conferencing, application sharing, and follow-me Web browsing.

2. Embrace plugs into existing infrastructures, including networks, e-mail management systems, and back-office software such as billing and registration systems.

3. Embrace is built on a patent pending architecture that provides an open application programming interface and software developer’s kit for easy customization and integration.


Pricing

Embrace is available as a premise-based installation (per-seat license fee), hosted, or through a service provider for a monthly subscription or per-minute fee.

� Premise-based: approximately $1,000 to $1,500 per concurrent user

� Support ranges from 10%–24% of the total system license price.

� OutReach sells its systems to several service providers who, in turn, sell them as a hosted service. OutReach's service provider partners include:

– ACT Teleconferencing

– ComLinx

– Concert

– Conference Plus, Inc.


Contact Info

OutReach Technologies 7160 Columbia Gateway Drive Columbia, MD 21046 410.792.8000 tel 410.792.8008 fax [email protected] www.outreachtech.com


NetMeeting 3.0 – Microsoft



6

NetMeeting from Microsoft combines data, audio, and video collaboration. It has application and desktop sharing, whiteboarding, chat, audio, and video capabilities. NetMeeting works well on the Internet or the client’s LAN, allowing many people to do necessary work with data all at once. It provides point-to-point audio/video support (multipoint if a server is involved) and is voice-over-IP standards based, which combines well with telephones.

Features available to students include raise hand, text messaging capabilities, and the ability to take notes online. Course content can be downloaded prior to class, taken from a CD, or streamed at the time of class. The teacher and student both have the ability to record the class for later viewing. Instructor and assistant instructor can co-facilitate from different locations. Content creation can be done in the program. A variety of files can be imported for use in interactive live class, including Ami Pro, Lotus WordPro 96/97, Microsoft Word for Windows and Macintosh, WordPerfect for Windows and Macintosh, HTML, and text files.

In order to make revisions to the course, simply change the file on your machine, and it will be uploaded using a Web browser. Test scores can be generated via the TestLinc report generator. No IS support is needed for installation on the client side, but it is on the server side. The interface is customizable, and a full-duplex audio feature is delivered over the Internet. Microsoft has many partners that embed NetMeeting into their system. No server is necessary for multipoint data or two-person audio/video. Client must run Windows 95 or better with 16 or more MB of RAM.

NetMeeting is supported by Macintosh through interoperability and by UNIX through standards. Global capabilities include being localized into 36 languages. The largest implementation to date is with 50 people in a presentation-style meeting on the LAN. The major strengths are fast, scalable data conferencing capabilities and good audio/video interoperability. NetMeeting is a free product available from Microsoft.

User Reviews

One major player in the business world has found that it is a good idea to send video materials to be used to each of the participants before the class begins. Participants engage in online assisted asynchronous preparation for the live interactive sessions. The slide show presentations are supplemented with voice and chat from NetMeeting voice for its duplex capabilities. To accomplish this, you prepare a regular live session, then link it together using any Web development tool.

With all the participants viewing the graphics via the computer, you must have some embedded animation, voice, and video development options. Using these tools is scarcely different from having a teleconference to conduct a meeting or training session. The development of the sessions requires some computer aptitude. However, most college graduates have all they need. Clients should select computer-literate users as the primary participants. Instructions are sent via e-mail, then online. Trial runs are sometimes necessary to get the NetMeeting connection established. It is important that everyone feel secure in using the software. Jennifer Hofmann, Virtual Classroom Designer for InSync Training Synergy, suggests, “Every organization should have a ‘How to be a live online


learner’ 30-minute course that students must complete prior to taking another class. This would check the software, teach the ‘point and click,’ and teach people the basics of learning and communicating in this environment.”

“We use NetMeeting to conduct a series of training to groups of 2-3 people at a time in remote cities. It has worked well, and we chose NetMeeting because it was free and we could e-mail the executable file to users (or place on a shared drive).”

Students and teachers use NetMeeting that is hosted through the company’s server. If it runs correctly, the tool has very little to do with how you regard the final presentation. This is much the same as a regular lecture - you would not think of lecture notes or the transcript of a telephone conference in these terms. One company starts a NetMeeting group session and whiteboard on a server machine before the teacher and students log in. Those familiar with technology need only one session, while the technology-challenged are still nervous after ten sessions due to the old “fear of the machine" problem. One very accomplished user noted that whiteboard and multipoint audio conferencing available in one piece of software would be excellent. Another organization, however, expressed that NetMeeting is most likely not geared towards synchronous training. The reason is because you would need a conference server of some kind to make this a viable option for teaching multiple people.

Some companies are certain that none of the major training products fully support the features that organizations feel are truly necessary for long distance meetings. However, NetMeeting comes very close. One company feels that combining Real Player, Real Slide Show, and Real Producer with NetMeeting is the most cost effective and flexible. However, remember that these systems work fine with 56K modems, but are not very usable at 28.8K. There is no interaction between the parties unless a telephone link is opened simultaneously, and Real Player must be installed on all client computers.

Product Features



Primary Markets N/A




� Course Content:



– Yes, sections of class can be recorded using Exchange 2000 Conferencing Server.

– System manager can record class





– No


– Whiteboard




– Ability to prevent students from initiating activities like audio, video, whiteboard, chat, and calling


– N/A

Features for Course

Developers


– Yes


– Any file, by sharing the applications that understand the file


– N/A


– None



– Yes, using Exchange 2000 Conferencing Server


– N/A


– No


– Yes. H.323 standards for voice and gateway/gatekeeper support work with call queuing servers.








Information Systems

Administration


– Yes, Tuning Wizard


– No




� Full-duplex

� Protocols:


– T.120 (data)




� Chat

� File transfer

� Third party plug-ins

Interface Can Be

Customized

Yes


Other Than Browser

Required

Yes



� NetMeeting is standards-based:

– LDAP for directory

– T.120 for data-conferencing

– T.126 for whiteboard

– T.127 for file transfer

– T.128 for application sharing

– H.323 for audio/video

� Microsoft has many partners who make servers (multipoint audio/video servers, gateways) and equipment (special audio/video hardware, electronic whiteboards).

� Many partners embed NetMeeting in a larger system.

Server Requirements No server required for multipoint data or 2-person audio/video.

Client Requirements � Windows 95 with 16 MB of RAM.

� Works on Windows 95, 98, NT 4, Windows 2000, and Windows Millennium.

Macintosh Supported Yes, through interoperability

UNIX Supported Yes, through standards. NetMeeting has worked closely with Sun to ensure that the SunForum product interoperates with NetMeeting.

Global Capabilities � Localized into 36 languages

� All available on the Web

� Sensitive to regional issues, including:

– Taiwan

– The Punjab

– Slovakia-Slovenia




30–50 people in presentation-style meetings on the LAN



50 people in carefully managed LAN meetings, some active participants but most viewers

Recommended Class Size Depends on level of interactivity:

� High: 2–8

� Medium: 8–20

� Low: 20+

Service Offerings N/A

Product Support � NetMeeting Web site includes:

– Resource kit for deployment

– Case studies

– Scenarios

– Partner products

� Fan Web sites:

– NetMeeting.net

– MeetingByWire.com

Three Major Strengths 1. Fastest and most scalable data conferencing, especially for application and desktop sharing

2. Great audio/video quality and interoperability

3. SDK for others to use in Web pages

Financial Status of Firm Public (Nasdaq:MSFT)

Pricing

NetMeeting is free.

Contact Info

Microsoft Corporation

One Microsoft Way Redmond, WA 98025 425.882.8080 tel 425.936.7329 fax www.microsoft.com/windows/NetMeeting


Prep Vision 3.0 – ComputerPrep



175

Prep Vision allows training to be delivered via the Internet to learners worldwide, all without losing the human contact that is so important in learning. This system of knowledge permits users to interact with the presenter, thus experiencing a Web-based seminar firsthand. Prep Vision is also used to conduct membership meetings and is akin to the picture talk solution from Pixion. This Internet/intranet-based, client-to-server visual software application is currently being used in organizations worldwide. With Prep Vision, applications such as Excel and Outlook or other proprietary software can be presented to large groups of attendees in varied locations at once. Visual information is sent from the desktops of the presenters to the computers of attendees in real-time. No pre-formatting or image-handling is required. All attendees experience the benefit of real-time information and change viewing as they are sent by the presenter. Prep Vision can be used on the Internet, a company’s LAN, or a Wide Area Network.

Participants can link to a Web site running a conference server and register for or participate in virtual meetings. Prep Vision is platform, network, bandwidth, and application independent. Aside from this, the most important features are:

� Resizable frame for capturing real-time imagery

� Ability to transmit live visual formats

� Easy transfer of the role of the presenter to a remote desktop

� Text chat window

� Quizzing and polling that includes true and false, multiple choice, and fill-in-the blank questions

� Spreadsheet reporting of all Prep Vision attendees and questions asked

Their primary markets are training, sales and marketing, help desk support, and collaboration, in that order. Student interactions include raise hand, class pace feedback, and text messaging capabilities. Class content is accessed from a download or a CD before class or streamed in at the time of class. Either the student or instructor can record the class for later viewing. The presentation can be co-facilitated from different locations, and the assistant instructor can monitor the hand raise, comments, and text chat capabilities. On-demand tools for the instructor include quizzing, polling, and whiteboard. A variety of files can be imported for use in interactive live class including Ami Pro, Lotus WordPro 96/97, Microsoft Word for Windows and Macintosh, WordPerfect for Windows and Macintosh, HTML, and text files. A reporting of test scores is provided through the test generator. No IS support is needed for the client, but the server will require support. A full-duplex audio feature is included.

Server requirements for the PC include:

� Pentium II C 200 MHz

� Windows NT 3.51 or higher

� 64 MB RAM

� T1 or equivalent


Minimum server requirements for UNIX:

� UNIX Solaris, HPUX

� Intel or DEC Alpha

� 64MB RAM


Client requirements for the PC are:

� 25 MHz 386 Processor

� 8 MB RAM

� Windows 3.1

� 28.8 kbps TCP/IP connection

Minimum client requirements for Macintosh:

� 25 MHz 68030 or Power PC

� 8 MB RAM

� System 7.51 or higher


Minimum client requirements for Sun:

� 25MHz 386 Processor

� 32 MB RAM

� 28.8 kbps TCP/IP

� Sun Solaris 2.5 w/JAVA run-time or higher

There are no global capabilities, and the largest implementation to date has been 200 users on one server. Prep Vision’s major strengths are ease of use, quizzing and polling, and customization. Pricing for server licenses is based on the number of concurrent users. These begin at $500 per user and decrease as more users are added. As a result, the cost for 10 users would be $5,000 while the cost for 200 concurrent users would be $60,000. Setup and other fees are optional.

Product Features





10% Help Desk Support

5% Collaboration


– Raise hand







� Course Content:








– Yes. The presenter is at one location and the facilitator is at another. The facilitator’s role is to send out quiz questions, monitor the chat window, or send out visuals.


– Quizzing

– Polling

– Whiteboard


� Class management tools available



– Yes

Features for Course

Developers


– Prep Vision does not require an instructor to create course content specifically for the class. Anything visual that appears on the desktop can be transmitted.


– Prep Vision does not demand authoring tools.


– N/A


– N/A



– Yes


– Yes


– Yes



– Student record



– Oracle

– Access



– ODBC


– None








Information Systems

Administration


– No


– No


� Half-duplex

� H.323 protocol (video/audio)



� Virtual breakout rooms or real-time team rooms

� Polling

� Quizzing


� Record and playback

� Raise hand

� Chat

� Meeting customization

� Document/PowerPoint/spreadsheet attachments

� Slideshow mode

� Live mode

� Video mode

� Pointer

� Toolbar

� Icon bar

� User list


Yes


Required

Yes, Prep Vision requires plug-ins and Java.




Products

� Prep Vision is platform independent, bandwidth independent, and TCP/IP compatible.

� Prep Vision can be incorporated within any learning management system that is capable of launching and managing a Web-based application.

� Prep Vision has been incorporated with asynchronous content management and delivery systems.

� Prep Vision is a collaboration tool and incorporates shared application programs.

Server Requirements Minimum requirements for PC:

� Pentium II C 200MHz

� Windows NT 3.51 or higher

� 64 MB RAM


Minimum requirements for UNIX:

� UNIX Solaris, HPUX

� Intel or DEC Alpha

� 64 MB RAM


Client Requirements Minimum requirements for PC:


� 8 MB RAM

� Windows 3.1


Minimum requirements for Macintosh:

� 25 MHz 68030 or Power PC

� 8 MB RAM

� System 7.51 or higher


Minimum requirements for Sun:


� 32 MB RAM

� 28.8 kbps TCP/IP

� Sun Solaris 2.5 w/JAVA run-time or higher



Largest Full


200 users

1 server





300

Recommended Class Size Smaller is better, i.e., less than 15 in a 2-hour time frame.

Service Offerings � Software installation services

� Software installation testing of the following functions performed from a client workstation as applicable:

– Browse to server default home page

– Download and install appropriate Prep Vision client software

– Establish a Prep Vision Online meeting with and without cypherlocks

– Attend a Prep Vision Online meeting

– Establish presentation and participation capabilities within firewall and through it

– Conduct text chat

– Moderation capabilities

� Hardware installation testing to ensure the following:

– Successful system boot into licensee’s TCP/IP network at pre-assigned address on the server

– Ability to access default server home page from workstation

� Facilitator Training:

– Two days of training, including the operation of the product sufficient to maintain operation using a pre-set configuration and basic end-user training

Product Support � Help desk support

� Training manuals

� Web site

� Newsletters

Three Major Strengths 1. Ease of use

2. Quizzing and polling

3. Customization


Pricing

Pricing for server licenses is based on the number of concurrent users.

Concurrent Connections Per User Cost Total Cost

10

25

$500

$450

$5,000

$11,250


Concurrent Connections Per User Cost Total Cost

50

75

100

200

$400

$375

$350

$300

$20,000

$28.125

$35,000

$60,000

Cost Includes Installation/System Orientation

Advanced Training

� Client Server Software

� Audio Software

� Attachments

� HTTP Gateway

� Online/Remote $250

� Onsite* $1,000

� Online/Remote Training with TLC $1,000/day

� Onsite Training w/TLC* $1,500/day

Customization Maintenance & Support Optional Features

� Special Programming $500/hour

� Web Design $250/hour

� 18% of list price

� First 3 months included in cost of server license

� Timeline of agreement is 15 months

� PrepAudit $2,500

� PrepSched $2,500

� PrepMonitor $2,500

* Does not include travel and expenses

Pricing Schedule - Prep Vision Service Plan

Prep Vision Web Room Service Plan - Annual Subscription Plan

� Unlimited Events

– One-time set-up fee: $1,995

– Cost per user per month: $12

– (does something else belong here? – kjs)

Prep Vision Web Room Service Plan - Quarterly Subscription Plan


Pricing Schedule - Prep Vision Service Plan

Prep Vision Web Room Service Plan - Annual Subscription Plan

� Unlimited Events

– One-time set-up fee: $595

– Cost per user per month: $15

Services provided:

� Train the Trainer

� Prep Vision Communicator for distribution

� Software upgrades

� Password protected meetings

� 10 MG of disk space for attachments

� Maintenance and Support

� Single Event

– One-time set-up fee: $295

– Cost per user per month: $25/event

Services provided:

� Moderator/Facilitator

� Train the Presenter

� Consultation of graphic content

� Online Registration

� Password protection Web room

Optional Services

� Teleconferencing: $0.29/minute

� Polling: $50

� Welcome Screen: $50

� Graphic Design Services: $100/hour

Contact Info

ComputerPrep

400 44th Street Phoenix, AZ 85088 602.275.7700 tel 800.228.1027 toll-free 602.275.1603 fax Prep [email protected] www.computerprep.com


Part III

Appendix

Essential Technical Concepts for Understanding Live E-Learning Tools

Guidelines for Conducting a Live E-Learning Session

Other Products You May Have Heard Of

Background of Authors


Appendix

Essential Technical Concepts for Understanding Live E-Learning Tools

The following list of terms and their definitions will be useful in your decision-making process. Take a few minutes to familiarize yourself, then you can return to this section as needed. The terms are in alphabetical order for ease of use.

� 56K - Refers to 56Kbps (kilobits per second). A type of modem technology that uses normal telephone lines to transmit data over twice as fast as 28.8 Kbps modems. Due to the nature of this technology, not all telephone lines can achieve this kind of speed, and current Federal regulations limit the actual speed to around 52K-53K.

� 802.2 LLC – Logical Link Control is an Ethernet-based convention that was developed for data-link-level transmission control. It commands the construction of data packets and their conversion between data stations.

� .ASF – The full name is Active Streaming Format and is by Microsoft. This technology is used in the NetShow utility. It accepts audio, video, and other live Web-related transmissions. This format contains the streaming substance after the .asx alerts the browser.

� .ASX – Signal your Web browser you need it to summon Windows Media Player and transport an .asf file.

� .CSV – Certification that a system of knowledge is correctly readied and complies with the operational guidelines and requirements.

� .HTML/.HTM – HyperText Markup Language is the format used in Internet programming. Codes that are specific to layout, fonts, and graphics are hidden in the text.

� .JPG/.JPEG/.PNG/.GIF – Graphics file formats used on the Web. These formats are what allow you to have a wide variety of color in your screen pictures.

� .MPE/.MPG/.MPEG – Moving Pictures Experts Group is an ISO/ITU measure for compressing video files. It is possible that some of the first representation would be lost during compression.

� .PDF – Portable Document Format software allows records and other documents to be read by differing computer types.

� .RTF – Rich Text Format was originated by Microsoft and is used for encoding formatted text and graphics.

� .WAV – Format for bringing audio presentations through your computer (e.g., playing a CD).

� ADCCP – Advanced Data Communications Control Procedures is a bit-oriented, ANSI-standard, intercommunication link-layer protocol.

� AFP – AppleTalk File Protocol is Apple’s network protocol that provides file server and client access in an AppleShare network.

� ALAP – AppleTalk Link Access Protocol is a link access layer protocol that manages packet transmission on LocalTalk.

� API – Application Program Interface communicates with the control program and formulates commands that link to the appropriate subroutines. Another program module is necessary to attach to the existing program.


� APPC – Advanced Program-to-Program Communication is a high-level communications protocol from IBM. It enables one program to relate mutually to another on the network and supplies regulations for managing a session, sending and receiving data, and transaction of security and integrity.

� Application Sharing – Data conferencing abilities where two or more users are able to access the same program at once. While the application is operating from only one machine, both are able to input data. You will see this same feature in remote guidance software.

� APPN – Advanced Peer-to-Peer Networking is an addition to IBM’s SNA communication and offers the most competent avenue for establishing direct interaction between users anywhere on the network.

� ARA – Apple Remote Access is a communication software intended to extend remote access capabilities to an AppleTalk-compatible network through an ARA server.

� Archiving (record/playback) – Data written to and stored on disk to be easily accessed more than once.

� ARP – Address Resolution Protocol is the TCP/IP protocol used to gain access to a node’s physical address. This occurs when only its rational IP address is known. The ARP inquiry with the IP address is sent out on the network, and the node with that address answers by sending back its hardware address so that packets can be sent.

� ASP (Application Service Provider) – An Application Service Provider is a company in the business of accommodating the software applications of others on its servers. The customer, in turn, is able to dial up and obtain the program through modem or Internet connections.

� Authoring tools/Authorware – Tools that are put to use when building learning programs that relate mutually to Windows and Macintosh. Authorware is an authoring program from Macromedia.

� Bandwidth – The broadcast ability of a communications network or computer bus or channel. These are given in bits per second, bytes per second, or cycles per second (Hertz). With Hertz, the rate of vibration may be more than the actual bits per second since the bandwidth is the variance between the lowest and highest.

� Bisync or BSC – Binary Synchronous is a coexistent interaction protocol that sends binary-coded data between two devices employing a set of control characters and sequences. It requires that both devices be synchronized before sending data.

� Bit-rates – Variable Bit Rate (VBR) is the speed at which transmission is accomplished (number of bits per sample).

� Breakout Rooms – Rooms in a building that are suitable for online group training, presentations, or meetings.

� Breakout sessions (one-on-one or pairwise learning) – Attendees of a lecture or presentation “break out” into smaller discussion groups, normally held after a major topic has been addressed.

� Broadband – High-speed transmission of data in communications lines or services.

� Broadband for dynamic content delivery – Has the ability to add content while program is running.

� Browser – A program that enables you to access a set of data, usually formatted with HTML or Java.

� Buffering – The utilization of a fragment of computer memory that has been set aside to keep pieces of information while they are being processed. A buffer is a small hardware memory deposit used for special purposes, such as streaming media.


� Caching – The process of putting often-used bits of information in a memory holding area to be accessed as needed.

� CHAP/PAP – Challenge Handshake and Authentication Protocol/Password Authentication Protocol is the standard verification protocol for PPP middleman machines.

� Chat – The ability for two or more users on a local area network (LAN), the Internet, or via a BBS to hold a conference through input on the keyboard.

� Client/server – The connection of the user’s personal computer (client) to the supplying computer (server). All clients must first connect to a server to access any part of the network, though often the server computer is the only destination.

� CLNP – Connections Network Protocol is an OSI network layer protocol that transmits data without requiring a circuit to be established first.

� Collaboration (collaborative learning) - All participants have equal sharing ability to drive and share materials.

� Connection speed – The time it takes for the client computer to connect with the server.

� Course outline/structure – The essence or overview of what is offered in a particular course.

� Databases (Oracle, SQL, Sybase, etc.) – A collection of associated files and records assembled and controlled by a database management system (DBMS). Forms of data can include text, graphics, sound, and video.

� DDCMP – Digital Data Communications Message Protocol is a link layer protocol that is byte-oriented and sustains half- or full-duplex modes and either point-to-point or multipoint lines in Digital Network Architecture circuitry.

� DHCP – Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol is a protocol for a self-acting TCP/IP arrangement that provides static and dynamic address appropriation and administration.

� Distributed architecture – The design pattern of architecture being spread throughout a communications system.

� Encryption/strong encryption – Encryption is the process of coding data for security purposes to protect it against others viewing it. Strong encryption uses a very large number as its key, making it many times more difficult to break the code.

� Enterprise systems (ERP, CRM, etc.) – Integrated information systems able to assist all areas of a business. ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems are able to mesh with an organization's personal software programs and lends itself to alteration when necessary. CRM (Customer Relationship Management) is used to plan, schedule, and control revenue activities in an organization.

� File formats – The framework of data files. Further classified as database, word processing, graphics, etc.

� Firewall – A method for keeping a network secure, filtering out unwanted packets of information, and separating a company's public Web server from its internal network.

� Firewalls – Multiple firewalls connected within a corporation’s system and used to protect internal network segments from snooping from within.

� FTP – File Transfer Protocol is a file-sharing protocol requiring users to log in using their name for corroboration and security determinations. Often used as a file storage mechanism in conjunction with HTTP Web pages.

� Granularity – The degree of flexibility that is available to customize a system.

� Graphical user interface (GUI) – A type of user interface that employs a visual metaphor for command-level processes. GUIs utilize a system of icons, pull-down menus, and a mouse pointer. Often seen in drag-and-drop sections of popular software.


� Groupware – Software that is intended to assure positive results when several users are working on related jobs. It also arranges a system of parts to help users track on-going projects.

� H.323 Technology – A standard used for videoconferencing over local area networks (LANs) and the Internet allowing transfer of any combination of voice, video, and data.

� Half- and Full-Duplex – Half-duplex devices allow only one party to send transmission of data at a time. A full-duplex mechanism allows both parties to send at the same time.

� HDLC – High-level Data Link Control is an ISO communications propriety standard for communications. It is used in packet switching and enables error rectification at the data link layer.

� IGRP – Interior Gateway Routing Protocol is a distance-vector directing protocol used in major networks.

� IM (instant messaging) – Software that provides the ability for users to be informed when someone in their same group logs onto the network. It also sends alerts when someone in the group has sent a message.

� Instructional design – The unfolding of a blueprint using learning and instructional theory to ensure the quality of teaching and a transfer system to accomplish that goal.

� Internet – More than 65 million computers in over 100 countries provide commercial, academic, and government information to anyone who logs on. Details on every subject possible can be found here.

� Internet gateway – A computer system able to modify and send messages back and forth between protocols connecting to all the other communications networks in the world.

� Internet vs. extranet vs. intranet – The Internet is public and can easily be accessed by everyone. An extranet is any specific section of the Internet, such as a Web site, that allows access to private data to be utilized by those with passwords. An intranet is an in-house IP network serving only the employees/members of a specific enterprise. Some of the pages here may link to the Internet, but this document is not open to the general public.

� Internet vs. satellite vs. videoconferencing – The Internet is a public entity to be accessed by everyone via a modem. A satellite is a radio relay station in orbit above the earth that transmits analog and digital signals within a carrier frequency. Video conferencing is video communications session among three or more people that are geographically separated.

� Intranet vs. LAN - Both are networks used internally in organizations and companies to connect employees and users with each other, but not the outside world (except in special cases). An intranet uses the IP protocol and operates as a “mini-Internet” within the organization, applying such technologies as FTP, HTTP, and SMTP. LAN (Local Area Network) is simply any network that connects a group of people together and can encompass such technologies as Ethernet, Token Ring, AppleTalk, and others. An intranet is a type of LAN.

� IP (Internet Protocol) – This is the IP part of the TCP/IP protocol. It is used to send communication to a different network or subnetwork and is the primary protocol used on the Internet and many intranets.

� IPX – Internet Packet Exchange is a communications protocol in use primarily by Microsoft that routes communication from one node to another through the application’s control.

� IRC (chat) – This is computer conferencing on the Internet. It provides a graphical interface for all purposes, including accessing popular servers and broadcasting messages to anyone accessing a specific channel.


� Java - A programming language for creating Internet/intranet based applications. In many cases, the applications are stored on the server and executed on your computer. It was developed so that one version of a program can be executed on any platform (Windows, Macintosh, UNIX, etc.) without modification.

� Java-based – Presentations created and played-back using Java.

� Learning style – The style used most predominantly to retain information whether it be online or instructor led.

� Learning/knowledge object – A self-contained module of data dedicated to the online learning process.

� Lecture style – The style of the presenter’s educational demonstration.

� Level of Interactivity – Pertains to the amount of back-and-forth dialog that occurs between the user and a computer.

� Live – Occurring as you are viewing it.

� Manageability – How well the software works within your network

� Media servers/media players (Windows Media vs. Real vs. Quicktime) – A media server is a specialized streaming server (such as Windows Media) that transfers information to the client. A media player is software that plays sound and video files such as Windows media. QuickTime files are large files that offer better image and sound quality than Real, but require longer download times because the data is stored on your computer. Real Audio and Video files have a very short download time becuase the data is stored on the server computer. As a result, they are smaller in size and have a lower quality than QuickTime. Real is a streaming technology, which means the server sends the media to your player, which plays it simultaneously - no data is saved to your computer.

� Mentoring – A method of passing on knowledge where a person more experienced in a specific professional field assists someone who is less experienced.

� Narrowband – Relates to transmission rates from 50 bps to 64 kbps. This encompasses many 56K modems, some ISDN lines, and some Frame Relay systems.

� Needs assessment – Assessing the needs of your company’s training requirements.

� NetBEUI – NetBIOS Extended User Interface is an updated rendition of the NetBIOS protocol used by network operating systems such as LAN Manager.

� NetBIOS – Network Basic Input/Output System is a network operating protocol that comes in two modes—datagram and Session.

� NFS – Network File System is a file system that apportions files within a diverse network and allows non-local network computers to use the files and peripherals. It is a Windows NT 4 and NT 2000 proprietary file system.

� Notification – Alerting you of the availability of some piece of information you requested.

� On-demand – Applications are available to the user when they request it to be run.

� OS (operating systems, NT vs. UNIX vs. LINUX vs. Macintosh) – The operating system is the program that operates the computer and coordinates the operations of other programs. NT is a Microsoft proprietary OS (also called Windows NT), which is a more powerful and stable version of Windows 95/98 and is used primarily for servers. UNIX is an older command-line OS used to run more powerful computers. It is extremely stable and secure and is used for the majority of the Internet’s Web servers. LINUX is a type of UNIX that is becoming more and more popular with many programmers because of its stability, ability to be customized, and its use of open standards. Macintosh is an Apple proprietary OS that runs only on Apple computers. It is favored by some programmers because of its graphical orientation.


� OSPF – Open Shortest Path First is used to decide which path is the most effective for sending data by examining the number of routers, speed, delays, and costs.

� Out-of-band – An interrupt signal.

� Peer-to-peer - A type of networking that connects computers without using a server computer for intermediary transport. Contrasts with client/server.

� Plug-ins – Audio, video, multimedia, animation software applications that increase the features of your browser.

� POTS – Plain Old Telephone System. Refers to the regular telephone lines that run into your house.

� PPP – Point-to-Point Protocol allows the user to link directly onto the Internet using a telephone line and high-speed modem to connect to an Internet service provider (ISP).

� Proxy server -- This application conceals the link between sender and receiver, often from an internal network to the Internet, closing the straight path between two networks. It prohibits a hacker from spying on an online session to get internal addresses and other details of a private network. Proxy servers are used so that a user on an internal network can access common Internet services such as e-mail and Web surfing without fear of breaching network security. However, for this reason some Internet services do not work with proxy servers.

� PSTN/POTS/ISDN/T1 – These are telephone networks. PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) is the voice telephone network worldwide (the same as Plain Old Telephone System or Service [POTS]). ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) is the international telecommunications standard for transmitting voice, video, and data. It can be over twice as fast as a 56K modem. T1 is a point-to-point dedicated, digital circuit used for private networks and connections between an organization's PBX or LAN and the telephone company. Depending on the implementation, T1 is many times faster than ISDN.

� RAM – The full name is Random Access Memory – memory chips acting as the computer's primary workspace. RAM is cleared whenever the computer is shut off.

� Real-time – Information can be accessed as it is happening.

� Record & Playback – A program allowing audio and video to be placed on disk in your computer and then accessed again.

� Reliability – The reputation of a product and its ability to last.

� Reporting – The accumulation of facts and figures combined into one document and given to the user in a specific format.

� Rich media – Information made up of graphics, audio, video, and animation in any combination that is a larger file than plain text.

� RIP – Routing Information Protocol finds the shortest path between two points on a network.

� Scalability – Referencing the amount to which a system can be enlarged.

� Scheduling/registration/e-commerce – Scheduling is arranging when something should happen. Registration is setting aside a specific place and time for something to happen. E-commerce (electronic commerce) is the process of doing business online.

� SDLC – Synchronous Data Link Control is a bit-oriented coexistent communications protocol.

� Security/encryption – Security is the shielding of information against prohibited admittance. Encryption is the coding of information for protection purposes.


� Server Configuration – The options that have gone into making the server capable of doing its job.

� SLIP – Serial Line Internet Protocol is a communications protocol intended to operate IP over serial lines.

� SMTP – Simple Mail Transfer Protocol is a TCP/IP convention that directs e-mail messages between network hosts.

� SNA – Systems Network Architecture is the workings of a computer network that coordinates the most efficient path between network nodes. It then routes each message with addressing data embedded in the protocol.

� SPX – Sequenced Packet Exchange is a protocol used to assure the successful transport of messages across a network.

� SSL (Secure Socket Layers) – This is the topmost protection protocol for your system on the Internet. It consists of the browser and server passing data back and forth through a secret key encryption process. An SSL key must be purchased from an Internet security company before SSL can be used on an Internet server.

� Streaming media – The concurrent transport and display of audio and video on the Internet. This contrasts with media that must first be saved to the user’s computer before playback.

� Support for audio and visual learners (done with data sharing and high quality audio) – A system set up to help the audio and visual learner bypass the technological problems and apply himself/herself to the subject matter.

� Synchronous and asynchronous – Synchronous refers to happenings that are coordinated in time. Asynchronous refers to those that are not.

� T.120 Technology – An ITU basis for sharing information among multiple users. It shows the limits of interfaces for whiteboards, application viewing, and application sharing.

� TCP/IP – Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol is used for data exchange and internetworking dissimilar computer hardware and operations.

� Threaded discussion group/BBS – A “thread” is a specific topic for discussion within a discussion group. In a threaded discussion group, messages can be grouped and sorted according to which “thread” they belong to for easy reading. A Bulletin Board System (BBS) is used to store and catalog information for a particular interest group. Before the Internet was popularized as a repository of consumer data, users would dial in to small, private BBS networks to access discussion groups, files for downloading, and other data. Although many BBSs are still in place today, the term “BBS” now also refers to a type of discussion group that mimics this kind of data access on the Internet.

� Types/versions – In programming, type is a category decided upon by the kind of data stored in it (example: integer, floating point, string). A version is a specific issue or release of a software package.

� UDP – User Datagram Protocol is a TCP/IP connectionless mode protocol allowing a program to send a message to one of several applications running on either a remote or local machine.

� Unicasting/Multicasting/Broadcasting – Unicasting is the transmission from one station to another (i.e., from client to server or peer-to-peer). Multicasting is the transmission of a message to a specific set of receivers simultaneously. Broadcasting is the transmission of a message within a network where the receiving point is undefined, intended to reach everyone on a network without specifying every single address.

� Universal access – Access provided to everyone. Sometimes refers to the inclusion of those parts of the population which are traditionally Internet-poor, such as lower-income


families and the disabled. Also refers to accessing a network without a password or encryption key.

� Voice over IP – The two-way transference of audio over an IP network as used in a private intranet or WAN.

� VoIP (voice over IP) – Same as Voice over IP.

� Web browser –—The program your computer uses to access the World Wide Web on the Internet.

� Web server – A computer that enables users to access the World Wide Web and contains the hardware, operating system, Web server software, TCP/IP protocols, and the Web site content.

� Web-touring – Accessing the World Wide Web and searching a variety of sites to see what is available.

� Whiteboard –—Allows system participants to concurrently view one or more users drawing on an on-screen blackboard. Only one user is actually operating the program from his or her computer.

� Wireless – Transmission through the airwaves used to furnish transmission “without wires”, such as for cellular, microwave, and satellite services.

� X.25 – Protocol that provides devices with a direct connection to a packet switched network. These would be larger computers such as mainframes and minicomputers.

� XNS – Xerox Network Services’ five-layer architecture, distributed file system protocol that allows network stations to access other non-local computers’ data and peripherals.

The Matter of Bandwidth

Bandwidth is defined as the transmission capacity of an electronic line. The examples most often given for this are a communications network, computer bus, and computer channel. Bandwidth is stated in bits per second, bytes per second, or in Hertz (which are cycles per second). The term “bandwidth” is also used to describe a transmitted communications signal, relating to the range of frequencies of the signal. All signals being sent, whether analog or digital, have a particular bandwidth. The same logic pertains to receiving systems. Bandwidth is directly related to the quantity of data transmitted or received per block of time. To sum it up, bandwidth is equal to the load of data for a given level of system achievement. Everyone knows that it takes more power to download a glossy picture in one second than to download a one-page text document in one second—that is bandwidth at work.

However, the need for extra power does not end with mere photographs. There is much more in the world that requires high usage of bandwidth. Still more bandwidth is required for large sound files, computer programs, and animated videos. Virtual reality (VR) and full-length, three-dimensional audio/visual presentations must use even more bandwidth. Video bandwidth is the maximum display resolution of a video screen. It is measured in MHz and calculated by multiplying horizontal by vertical resolution by refreshes needed per second. Digital systems measure bandwidth in bits per second (bps). Consider that a modem working at 57,600 bps will have twice the bandwidth capacity of one that works at 28,800 bps. Analog systems define bandwidth as the difference between the highest- and lowest-frequency signal components.

Much speculation has been given as to whether or not corporate America really needs to use the bandwidth required for all of the high-end devices being installed. Corporate bandwidth usage doubles every quarter of each year. Consequently, carriers are outlining plans to increase the capacity of their core networks. To accommodate these demands, carriers are installing routers to assist multiple transferences while keeping an eye on installing switches


to support terabits-per-second (Tbps) speeds. High speed/high bandwidth Internet access is 140 times faster than the typical 56K dial-up modem.

Much of the expectation in this growth area deals with consumers who are often interested in top-of-the-line presentation services. Examples of this are high-quality live training sessions and video on demand services. Such system designs are being implemented constantly to make it simpler for ISPs to keep pace with rapid core bandwidth increases. The “always on” Internet connection broadband options for the home allow fast download speeds with modest upload speeds. Due to the current need, predictions have been made that ISPs offering dial-up access will fade away in a few years. However, high-bandwidth cable modem data connections are not as yet available to everyone and have their own intrinsic problems that must be worked out before achieving ubiquity.

Guidelines for Conducting a Live E-Learning Session

As with every good business venture, you need to have a plan to see how you want to set up your live online learning session. Take a few minutes and decide the particular subject matter you want to bring to your company. Next, decide the objectives you hope to accomplish in this training. Your message should be tailored to the needs of your audience. An outline will help to keep things on track and cue your speakers when they are to begin their portion of the training. If you plan to use moderators, this will help them as well. It is very important that you are aware of your own technical capabilities. This will enable you to create an appropriate approach for the Webcast.

Scheduling a date for the training is the next step. You will need to coordinate the date with your preferred speakers/moderators. Once everyone has agreed on a given time, schedule the training. Now you need to decide which technology and service provider you want to use. Also, what about licensing? You will need to outsource if you do not have in-house licensing. Set realistic expectations for the event as to what is to be achieved, the size of audience, and the lowest common denominator technologically.

An e-mail invitation is appropriate here. These need to be sent out several days in advance to assure appropriate scheduling of participants’ time. When sending the invitations, be sure you are clear regarding the purpose for this meeting. If this training is mandatory, state that upfront. Give distinct instructions for how to access the meeting URL and audio information. Remember to state the date and time in your message. You should request that students who are new to a virtual classroom test the minimum requirements of their system the day before the session.

From here, you can turn your attentions to the training itself. A skilled leader is able to transition smoothly from the traditional classroom to the virtual classroom carrying his or her skills along the way. So, prepare for this session much as you would for a session in a conference room without online capabilities. Finalize the composition of your training delivery, upload the session, and rehearse so that you will have a smooth presentation. The logistical details will need some coordination. Assuming you are not the only presenter, you should divide the responsibilities for answering questions, taking the spotlight, and other details among all that are involved.

Trainers leading live online learning sessions have the unique opportunity to allow students to become involved in these dynamic participatory conferences. To ensure participants receive the utmost that the learning objectives have to offer, trainers use every online tool at their disposal to bring the knowledge to life. Here you have capabilities for oration, interactive lab exercises, sessions where students act in unison, coaching, and mentoring. The interactive opportunities such as question-answer, discussion, surveys, evaluations, and group feedback will benefit students who have different styles of learning. Of course, that is all of us, since we all learn differently from one another.


Some important areas for the trainer to focus on in the live online session are: continued awareness of the delivery technology, encouragement of participant response, assurance that there is an animated delivery style, and a thorough knowledge session material. Just a few more housekeeping details and you are finished. During rehearsal, you will be able to self-critique the presentation. You will note which interactive features benefit the presentation the most from your point of view. A reminder e-mail immediately before the training is helpful to all concerned. Remind participants of the date, time, and information that needs to be accessed.

When it is time to begin, instruct the participants in the use of all interactivity tools they have at their disposal. You will be able to conduct the presentation making optimum use of many of these same tools. These will help to draw attention to your key points and enhance the learning experience for the students. This is a good opportunity to define the rules for asking questions and going offline. Discuss the agenda of the training in order to give students an overview of the course. For participants who are first-time users, a brief demonstration on how to use the tools of the class is in order. Others could use the refresher as well.

A good idea is to set up the classroom with appropriately interesting URL links and other bits of interest well in advance of the session. Keep the students involved by asking questions periodically that pertain to the delivery of the session. This will give you excellent feedback to use later relating to the pace of the class, how well it held their attention, and whether all areas are covered adequately. The Group Chat feature is an excellent tool. It helps students to quickly receive answers to their questions without interrupting the rest of the class. In addition, the instructor can keep tabs on the interest level of the group by having an assistant monitor the transmissions. In this way, the instructor will know which steps to take in order to regain the interest of the class if it drifts away. For a large amount of course-related questions coming into the question manager section, you will be able to have a subject matter expert on hand to provide answers. The question manager provides a view of all questions and answers to benefit the entire class.

If it is appropriate for your type of meeting, bring up a live response form from the Web. This is particularly a good idea when you are dealing with training, focus groups, and product launches. Hopefully, you were able to record the session. If so, post it electronically and give instructions of how to access it to the attendees in case they feel the need to review content. Lastly, you have a chance to follow-up with the students by e-mail to get their post-training opinions. This will help you to ascertain whether your meeting objectives were met.

Other Products You May Have Heard Of

BitRoom 1.0

BitRoom is a product of Bell Labs’ Persystant Technologies. Those who market the product believe that BitRoom is as good as Symposium, PlaceWare, or HorizonLive. Those who handle BitRoom have promised to be working furiously at removing the cost barrier to this type of technology. BitRoom is a coexistent, Web-based, training delivery system that employs push and voice over IP technologies. This is a client/server application giving instructors the ability to deliver interactive training concurrently to multiple students over the Web. Features include online lectures during which students can relate mutually to the instructor and other users through voice and text chat. Students are able to use the raise hand capability, respond to questions, and work in coordination with others.

BitRoom offers many of the abilities so often sought after when conducting application-sharing sessions: Web safaris, whiteboarding, and breakout room divisions. The essence of the lectures can be digitally recorded and stored for future playback. Virtual conferences are


created by linking networked users by phone, laptop, or multimedia PC over the Internet or corporate intranets. BitRoom operators can combine real-time collaboration capabilities into network environments. There should be little need to modify underlying software due to customization and integration services. This software is designed to enable voice and data communications for groups of 50 or more. The base price for the system is $35,000, not including PBX capabilities. Access is offered through dialing in to a password-protected BitRoom Web site or conference bridge. BitRoom users can participate in meetings, lectures, or presentations by telephone or from a computer over the Web. In this way, they all do not have to have Internet access.

Persystant Technologies

Melanie Underwood E-Learning Systems Operations Manager 303.488.5130 tel [email protected]

CUseeMe

This product, which is mainly a desktop video conferencing software, is owned by CUseeMe Networks (formerly White Pine Software). Its main use is for real-time person-to-person or group conferencing. The main features of this product are full-color video, audio, chat window, and whiteboard communications. You will note that speakers or headsets are required to receive audio portion. This software will run on Windows or Macintosh: Version 3.0 for Windows 95/NT 4.0;, Version 2.1.1 for Windows 3.x/NT 3.51; and Version 2.0 for Macintosh.

CUseeMe claims to have started the popularity of videochat on the Internet. Now with the commercial version, clients are able to access online training and informative cybercast events. The best things offered here are the color support and multiplatform and whiteboard capabilities. However, the cost is a negative factor – at $69 for each installation. This could easily become expensive when you consider the total prices of implementing it corporate-wide. Software license bundles can be purchased in amounts of 10 or 25 and come with CUseeMe Clients and Reflector.

CUseeMe Networks, Inc.

542 Amherst Street Nashua, NH 03063 603.886.9050 tel 603.886.9051 fax

[email protected] www.cuseeme.com

PowerPoint

In using the live online learning tools at their disposal, many users of live e-learning tools have come to realize that the real development is done in PowerPoint and presented through the training packages. For this reason, the development capabilities of PowerPoint have often been paired with the powerful tools found in training packages such as Centra, InterWise, and Netpodium. It is very important to finalize the design process before turning to the training tool to help create and build upon the courses. The preparatory work is often done in PowerPoint before being transferred to such major training platforms as Centra, InterWise, PlaceWare, and NetMeeting.

Microsoft Corporation


One Microsoft Way Redmond, WA 98025 425.882.8080 tel 425.936.7329 fax

Timbuktu Pro 2000

Timbuktu Pro software offers users a scaleable, multi-platform answer to their user support, telecommuting, and collaboration needs across a LAN or the Internet. With Timbuktu Pro Enterprise, systems administrators can control a remote machine operating on their network. This will enable them to perform evaluations, diagnoses, and troubleshooting functions. Business professionals can collaborate and communicate using state-of-the-art screen sharing technology. Timbuktu Pro is also available for Macintosh.

Timbuktu Web Seminar is Web-based screencasting technology that allows the sharing of information with anyone over the Web. Lower costs are achieved through improved collaboration. This is because anyone with an Internet connection and Web browser can engage in real-time, Web-based meetings. With this software, users can share information and ideas, participate in training exercises, launch products, and meet with prospects and customers.

Timbuktu Conference is compatible with computers running T.120 application sharing software. This includes those using Microsoft NetMeeting. It allows for collaboration across multiple platforms to varied participants. For example, a Macintosh can share an application with a group of Windows machines running NetMeeting. You will now be able to show your Macintosh applications to all the participants in a conference. This will enable them to view and, indeed, direct your application.

Timbuktu Pro 2000 puts the power of Internet communications on your desktop. It is an ideal solution for mobile workers and users who need to connect and communicate with other computers across the Internet, over multiple communication modes, and across multiple platforms. Business users appreciate the ability to control their desktop computer from any location to find and retrieve files, create presentations, and work remotely with other users. Their simple modem-to-modem connections offer a choice of connectivity options for virtually any environment.

Netopia, Inc. 2470 Mariner Square Loop Alameda, CA 94501 510.814.5100 tel 510.814.5020 fax [email protected] www.netopia.com


Background of Authors

Brandon Hall, Ph.D. Publisher, brandon-hall.com

� Brandon provides advisory services to organizations selecting software and designing enterprise-wide strategies for online learning.

� Author, Web-Based Training Cookbook (John Wiley & Sons, New York, 1997).

� Author, Training Management Software: How to Choose a Package Your Company Can Live With. (Industry report, 1998).

� Author, Web-Based Training Market Research Report (Report, 1997).

� Author, Return on Investment and Multimedia Training (Industry report, 1995).

� Columnist, Inside Technology Training magazine (Ziff Davis Publications, ongoing monthly).

� Interviewed by Fortune, New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Business Week, Fast Company, Working Woman, Forbes ASAP, PC Week, InfoWorld, all major training industry magazines, and many computer industry magazines.

� Author of articles in Internet World, Training and Development, New Media, and many others.

� Frequent presenter at industry conferences, including American Society for Training and Development, International Society for Performance Improvement, Learning Technology, Online Learning, Interactive, and others.

� Conference presentation topics include Web-based training, future trends, training management systems, and others.

� Contributed to training programs at Hewlett-Packard, IBM, Kraft/General Foods, 3M Company, Westinghouse, Intel, and many others.

� Professional affiliations include:

– American Society for Training and Development

– International Society for Performance Improvement

� Doctorate in Educational Psychology.

� Brandon has worked as a consultant on training to Fortune 500 companies for 21 years.

� Brandon lives with his wife, Vicky, and their children Brian, age 14, and Karen, age 12, in Sunnyvale, California. He has been a marathon runner and triathlete, has scuba dived and sky dived, but he really prefers just kicking back, playing with his kids and his multimedia computer.

Multimedia & Internet Training Newsletter

� Coverage includes online training, multimedia and computer-based training and training management systems.

� Reader supported; no advertising.

� Board of Editorial Advisors comprised of industry leaders.


Margaret Driscoll, Ed.D.

� Consultant in the strategic planning and design of Web-based training programs and an adjunct professor at the University of Massachusetts Boston.

� Author of Web-Based Training for Jossey-Bass and the monthly Inside Technology Training magazine column Reality Check.

� Margaret’s work has appeared in the Journal of Performance Improvement; Training and Development; the Multimedia and Internet Newsletter; Technical Training magazine; Technical Communications Quarterly; and CommunicationsWeek.

� Industry analyst, interviewed by reporters for Inside Technology Training and American Management Association.

� Featured speaker at national training events.

� Masters in Instructional Technology from Boston College; Masters in Business Administration from the University of Massachusetts; Masters and Doctorate in Adult and Higher Education from Teacher College, Columbia University.

� Sixteen years of training and educational experience in organizations such as the University of Massachusetts Medical Center, Digital Equipment Corporation, BayBank, Stratus, Interleaf, Compaq Computer, and Fidelity Investments.

live e-learning final version › clippingsme-assets › cuttingpdfs › ... · 2018-08-05 · how...

Documents