Rapid E-Learning is an exploding new segment of the e-learning market. New tools for Powerpoint conversion and rapid development make it easier than ever for trainers, subject matter experts, and developers to build online courseware.

We are launching our 2005 edition of this groundbreaking study with an update on the market, new tools, new methodologies, case studies, templates, and trends in this white hot market. Read why we believe Rapid E- learning is one of the fastest growing segments in corporate training and how you can adopt these approaches for your organization.

This 100+ page analysis includes a review of the top tools:

• Self Study Tools: Macromedia Breeze, Articulate, Brainshark, CourseAvenue, DirectWeb, Learn.com, ReadyGo, Macromedia Captivate, Trivantis Lectora, Outstart Trainersoft.
• Live: iLinc, Centra, Interwise, LearnLinc/iLinc, Macromedia Breeze Live, WebEx.

Cytec Industries, Inc., a global manufacturer of specialty chemical and materials products, needed to replace 25 disparate learning management systems (LMSs) located at company facilities across the globe. These "islands of information" prohibited a global view of all training investments taking place throughout the company, and slowed the pace of rolling out new learning initiatives.

This case study describes how Cytec Industries defined their requirements, planned the implementation, and completed the migration of their system. Due to IT staff limitations, Cytec Industries selected an application service provider (ASP) for their LMS. ASPs are growing in popularity among small to medium-sized businesses as a cost-effective and practical alternative to the more traditional software acquisition process.

This case study also demonstrates that organizations can replace an existing LMS with little or no downtime. The LMS implementation practices followed by Cytec Industries should be considered by any organization investigating a centralized approach to their LMS strategy.

Just over one year ago, Bersin & Associates launched its E-Learning Research Center, a library of industry studies, white papers, case studies, and articles covering e-learning technologies, tools, and trends.

We are proud to say that we now have over 1,000 members in our Research Center subscription program - companies like Microsoft, GSK, IBM, ADP, JD Power & Associates, and Owens Corning.

Our members have told us they have received considerable value from the Research Center. Research members have access to our current and upcoming research studies for an entire year, keyword search capablities, and telephone and online advisory services.

Studies to be released this quarter include:

• Offshoring E-Learning
  This paper will help you decide what e-learning initiatives to offshore and how to select and manage a partnership with an offshore supplier.

• E-Learning Content Evolution
  An industry study of how usage of packaged content has evolved and how organizations are getting the most out of their content.

• Excellence in Learning Governance and Management
  An industry study of best practices in organization, budgeting and governance of corporate training.

• Learning Content Management Systems: What Works^TM
  An industry study designed to understand how companies share e-learning content among multiple groups and the value of a separate LCMS.
• Convergence of Learning Management and Performance Management
  This study will describe how to best integrate performance and learning management systems and provide guidance on the products to buy and the best implementation strategies to adopt.

We have two free webinars this month. The first is "Rapid E-Learning in 2005: The Latest in What Works," in which we will discuss why Rapid E- Learning is the fastest-growing segment of the e-learning market today. In this informative web seminar you will learn:

• What is Rapid E-Learning and what tools comprise this category?
• What trends are emerging that will affect learning professionals in the next 12-24 months?
• How are companies implementing these technologies successfully?

Attendees of the live session will receive an excerpt of the report "Rapid E-Learning: What Works ^TM 2005." This webinar is free and is hosted by Brainshark, Inc.

• "Rapid E-Learning in 2005: The Latest in What Works"
• Presenters: Josh Bersin & Karen O'Leonard, Bersin & Associates
• Wednesday, May 25, 2005
• 2:00pm Eastern/11:00am Pacific Time
• SIGN UP NOW