Adobe Authorware

Description

Adobe Authorware is an IDE that can be used to create elearning applications. It was created by Macromedia, before Adobe took control of the program after version 7. In 2007, the program was discontinued.

Authorware allows you to create multimedia-rich applications that can be used to train students or teachers. The flowline is a similar to a flowchart that describes the program's structure. You can then add your content, which includes support for animations, text, graphics, video, and sound to make the application more interactive. The tool has a few wizards that can help you create your application's outline, and an easy drag-and-drop icon feature. For more advanced users, Authorware is fully scriptable, allowing you to create custom commands, extensible content, and Knowledge Objects.

When creating your application, Authorware allows you to import PowerPoint presentations and supports an array of media types, including Adobe Flash MX (outdated now) and MP3 audio. After you have finished editing your application, you can publish it to a CD or DVD, a corporate network or the internet. Authorware's interface is easy to use for Adobe users. It has panels that can be collapsed and expanded and can be grouped. The application is also extensible, Xtra extensions can be installed to provide additional functionality, such as advanced encryption, text-to-speech, and printing capabilities.

Back in the early 2000s, Adobe Authorware was a useful tool for helping educational and business users create e-learning applications. However, technology advancements have made Adobe Authorware obsolete and you should consider other options when developing an application.

▶ Other extension used by Adobe Authorware 7