MACROMEDIA INTRODUCES AUTHORWARE 6.5

New version adds support for Macromedia Flash MX, accessibility, and extensibility

TAAC7—The Alternative Authorware Conference—Atlanta—September 5, 2002—
Continuing its strong commitment to the e-learning market, Macromedia, Inc. (Nasdaq: MACR) today announced the availability of Macromedia Authorware 6.5, the latest version of the industry-leading visual authoring software for creating interactive e-learning applications. Macromedia Authorware 6.5 includes support for Macromedia Flash MX and Windows Media Player file formats; accessibility support to ensure e-learning applications and courseware meet governmental guidelines for accessible content, and improved extensibility features. Authorware 6.5 beta users are enthusiastic about the new and updated features in the product (see attached quote sheet), which will be available for download in late September from the Macromedia Online Store at www.macromedia.com/go/buyaw65/.

As e-learning applications continue to replace traditional methods of instruction in learning environments due to the reduced cost-per-student and the ability to keep courseware constantly updated, Macromedia Authorware has maintained its leadership position in this market because it is both powerful and easy to use. Authorware 6.5 adds even more power and more flexibility, enabling everyone from beginners with no programming experience to advanced developers using its powerful scripting capabilities to create interactive rich media experiences with ease.

"Macromedia Authorware 6.5 empowers developers to create accessible, engaging e-learning applications," said Pat Brogan, vice president of solutions, Macromedia. "Authorware is the long-standing leader in this field and has helped online learning evolve over the past decade."

"Authorware has always been the best tool for creating interactive programs, from prototypes to final delivery—hands down," said Robert R. Russell, senior interactivity developer, Allen Interactions, Inc. "Now Authorware 6.5 takes a giant step forward, with external scripting capabilities and improved Command and Knowledge Object functionality that allow us to create programs that are easier to design and develop, and a breeze to maintain. We are excited about the possibilities."

Macromedia Authorware integrates graphics, sound, animation, text, and video into compelling rich media learning experiences. Database connectivity and built-in data tracking facilitate the tracking of student progress and results, which is important for the assessment of training effectiveness and evaluation of return on investment. Authorware applications are easily deployed to the web, corporate networks, and CD-ROM with consistent, high-quality results on every platform.

Macromedia Authorware 6.5 also includes support for Macromedia Flash MX, which enables developers to import content created with the latest version of Macromedia Flash. A new XML parser enables developers to interact with large XML files as part of their courseware.

The product is even more extensible than before, with more than 35 additional properties now open for developers to more easily write reusable Commands and Knowledge Objects. Authorware Application Accessibility combines Knowledge Objects, Commands, models, and techniques to aid developers in delivering courseware that can be experienced by people with disabilities. Windows Media Player support enables Authorware 6.5 to play any media types supported by Windows Media Player, such as ASF, ASX, WMV, and IVF. For more information about new features in Authorware 6.5, visit www.macromedia.com/go/aw65/.