Lotus, Macromedia team for learning

In a complicated agreement to bolster its influence in the corporate and distance learning markets, IBM subsidiary Lotus, maker of the LearningSpace distance learning software, is acquiring Macromedia's Pathware self-directed learning software and associated intellectual property. The deal, centered around an undisclosed financial sum for the IP and an ongoing OEM agreement, is expected to generate $30 million over the next three years.

LearningSpace offers course delivery and real-time collaboration over the Internet. Pathware's modular design also offers student tracking, making management of multiple courses and large student populations easy. The combination is expected to enhance the self-paced learning capabilities in LearningSpace and add content creation capabilities compliant with AICC (Aviation Industry Computer-based training Committee).

The result, according to Brian Bell, senior VP of knowledge management at Lotus, is "a complete solution for online distributed learning.