Macromedia has launched Macromedia Authorware 7, the dedicated solution for creating highly interactive rich media e-learning content. Macromedia Authorware 7 enables e-learning developers to import Microsoft PowerPoint presentations, play back content on Mac OS X, use industry standard JavaScript scripting and easily integrate content with learning management systems. Macromedia Authorware 7 is available for immediate download from the Macromedia Online Store at www.macromedia.com/go/buyaw7/.

The product is priced at $2,999 for new users, $399 to upgrade from Authorware 6.5 and $899 to upgrade from Authorware 5.x and 6.0, with educational pricing at $499. Macromedia eLearning Suite is priced at $3,499 for new users, with educational pricing at $599. Authorware 7 and eLearning Suite are available in English only. Volume licensing is also available. Authorware 7 runs on Windows 98 SE, 2000 and XP.

Authorware 7 integrates graphics, sound, animation, text and video into valuable e-learning experiences. Macromedia Authorware 7 uses the same intuitive user interface that is featured across the Macromedia MX family of products, while retaining the product's visual flowline authoring metaphor and drag-and-drop functionality. The product also enables developers to leverage existing Microsoft PowerPoint presentations to create rich e-learning content. Authorware 7 now supports the import of DVD video so that this popular video format can be used in Authorware interactive applications.

"Macromedia Authorware 7 is the most robust tool in the industry for authoring e-learning applications that integrate with learning management systems," suggests Jacquie Beck, vp of e-learning, Brookwood Media Arts, a Macromedia Alliance partner. "The new features in Authorware raise the bar for both development and tracking."

Authorware 7 is available as both a standalone product or as part of the eLearning Suite, which also includes Macromedia Flash MX and Macromedia Dreamweaver MX.

San Francisco-based Macromedia software is intended for use on the Internet, on fixed media, on wireless and on digital devices. For more information, visit www.macromedia.com/go/aw7/.