Native 32-bit application, built for the future
Version 7 is a 32-bit application designed for the newer operating systems like Windows® 98, NT and 2000. It takes advantage of 32 bit performance and reliability improvements in these newer operating systems. You should not upgrade to version 7 for computers that are running Windows 3x. Version 7 requires at least Windows95.
Plays popular new media types
The new version incorporates DirectX multimedia support to allow you to include new multimedia file formats in your courses. DirectX is the multimedia system foundation for Microsoft Windows® operating systems. With DirectX, our programs take full advantage of your system to give you the best multimedia experience possible. This new release will play .mp2 and .mp3 files as well as new formats like .wma, .wmv, and .asf.
Version 7 makes customization easier
In the past, one of the difficulties with adding custom graphics was the "know-how" required to work with graphic files. We have reduced the "know-how" required and have streamlined the process. As an example, in the old 16 bit version, you had to make sure your pictures were 256 colors, you had to make sure they were 640 x 480 screen resolution, and you had to save them as indexed files. You also had to be concerned with the color palette to end up with truly sharp looking graphics.
Now, all you have to do is save your images directly to the course folder. You don't have to worry about the number of colors, you don't have to worry about screen resolution (we support them all, and even automatically scale them to the correct size if necessary). You also don't have to worry about the color palette.
With the new digital cameras you can output your photos or your MPEG, AVI, and Quicktime movies directly into your course, bypassing editing and paint programs. This will save you a lot of time when customizing your courseware. Exporting slides from PowerPoint presentations is even easier. You no longer have to adjust your screen size in PowerPoint.
Foundation for the future
One of the most important aspects of this release is that it is a "stepping stone" to running the courses over the web. Even if you are not planning on delivering any training over your intranet, it is critical that you get this update to make sure that you will be able to take advantage of new features that we will be adding to Version 7 in the future.
