One prediction already on target

On January 3rd I laid out my e-learning predictions for 2008. One of these was:

"We'll see more online rapid e-learning authoring environments come on the market, perhaps even open source."

I was either inspired or lucky (you choose) because since then a beta of RapideL-i was announced and then earlier this week I was treated to a sneak preview of a new tool called Unison from Rapid Intake, the makers of Flashform. Full details of this product are being kept under wraps until early February, but let's just say I was very impressed, and the pricing model will raise some eyebrows.

These products will provide further competition for two online rapid e-learning authoring tools which have already achieved good success, particularly in Europe, and that's Atlantic Link and Mohive. By comparison, Unison and RapideL-i have different feature sets and very different routes to market, but they join their predecessors in providing the most essential benefits of online authoring, not least easy collaboration amongst those working on the development team.

I'm optimistic that competition will provide customers with better products at ever more achievable prices. Who knows, I may even be able to afford to use one.