02/24/2004: "XML: Green Light Go"

Here is an excerpt from the article that keeps on giving, still available here.

Eventually, all e-learning products will use XML, making developing, delivering, and managing Web-based training easier and faster. In all likelihood, though, HTML (the Web publishing standard) won't be singing its swan song for years to come. So, what does XML mean for training now?

According to David Troug, senior analyst of the e-business infrastructure division of Forrester Research, it means planning ahead so you're not stuck "communicating in a dead language." He says, "As companies move from classroom training to Web-based training, they need to develop content using XML standards or else they're setting themselves up for disaster down the road. XML is the standard for how all computer systems will exchange information in the not-so-distant future."

XML has start-to-finish implications for WBT, including reducing online production time, developing more engaging training content, and integrating systems enterprisewide for easier program administration and management. The ultimate carrot at the end of the XML stick is a reduction in Web publishing costs by as much as 50 percent. Here are the key benefits that are driving XML momentum.