New features include PowerPoint import

New features include PowerPoint import, Mac OS X playback, and JavaScript support

AUCKLAND, New Zealand - 17 June 2003 - Macromedia (Nasdaq: MACR) announced the immediate availability of 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 (LMS). Macromedia Authorware 7 is available for immediate download from the Macromedia Online Store at http://www.macromedia.com/go/buyaw7/.

"For more than a decade, Macromedia Authorware has set the standard for e-learning applications, and now enables non-programmers to create content that is accessible and standards-compatible," said Kevin M. Lynch, vice president of e-learning and collaboration, Macromedia. "With support for emerging technologies, integration with learning management systems, and the ability to leverage PowerPoint presentations to build interactive courseware, Authorware 7 continues its ongoing mission to reduce the barriers to creating effective e-learning applications."

Macromedia Authorware 7 integrates graphics, sound, animation, text, and video into compelling 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. Macromedia Authorware 7 now supports the import of DVD video so that this popular video format can be used in Authorware interactive applications. For more information, visit http://www.macromedia.com/go/aw7/.

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

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

PRICING AND AVAILABILITY Macromedia Authorware 7 is available for immediate download from the Macromedia Online Store (http://www.macromedia.com/store/). The product runs on Windows 98 SE, 2000, and XP. The product is priced at NZ$5,775 for new users, NZ$785 to upgrade from Authorware 6.5, and NZ$1,740 to upgrade from Authorware 5.x and 6.0, with educational pricing at NZ$970. Macromedia eLearning Suite is priced at NZ$6,730 for new users, with educational pricing at NZ$1,165. Macromedia Authorware 7 and Macromedia eLearning Suite is available in English only. Volume licensing is also available.

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