Altova Expands Online Training Lineup with XMLSpy and MapForce Classes; Two New Instructor-Led Courses Explain Time-Saving XML Development and Data Integration Techniques

Business Wire, Nov 2, 2005

BEVERLY, Mass. -- Altova(R) (www.altova.com), creator of XMLSpy(R) and other leading XML, data management, UML, and Web services tools, today introduced two new Web-based training classes within its Altova Online Training educational services program. Led by Altova's expert trainers, the Introduction to XMLSpy and MapForce(R) Database Essentials classes are presented in efficient, two-hour sessions designed to fit tight budgets and busy schedules.

The Introduction to XMLSpy course provides an in-depth look into the features and capabilities of Altova's industry leading XML development environment. The class includes an overview of XMLSpy's user interface, feature walkthroughs relating to XML, XML Schema, XSLT, and XPath, hands-on examples, and more. While not a course in XML per se, those comfortable with the basics of XML technologies will gain a clearer understanding of how XMLSpy can aid and expedite XML development projects. Any level of software developer or technology specialist who wishes to learn how to simplify XML development tasks using XMLSpy is encouraged to participate.

"I found Altova's Introduction to XMLSpy course to be very well arranged, leading participants smoothly through the basics of the tool and clearly explaining each of its key features," said Craig Scott, Publishing Technology Manager for Scirus, Elsevier's science focused search engine, and a participant in Altova Online Training's beta class program. "The instructors were extremely knowledgeable and skillfully kept the audience's attention with things like pop quizzes, which were a fun way to both encourage audience participation and reinforce the course material."

The MapForce Database Essentials class focuses on using the Altova MapForce data integration and Web services implementation tool to visually create and execute data mappings between relational databases and XML files. In addition to helping participants gain familiarity with the database features available within MapForce, the session includes an exploration of the issues that arise in mapping between relational structures and hierarchical XML Schema Definitions (XSDs). Attendees learn how to establish database connections using the MapForce database connection wizard, and dynamically generate XSDs based on existing database schemas.

"Since their launch earlier this year, our Altova Online Training classes have rapidly gained popularity with customers seeking to expand their XML knowledge and development skills," said David Kershaw, Manager of Professional and Educational Services for Altova. "By offering these new XMLSpy and MapForce classes, we can help Altova users gain a richer understanding of how to leverage Altova tools to speed their development and data integration projects."

Full descriptions of each class, upcoming class schedules, prerequisites, and technical requirements are available at: www.altova.com/wbt_overview.html.> Pricing and Registration

Registration is currently open for all Altova Online Training classes being held in November and December 2005. Seats for all classes can be purchased instantly and securely via the Altova Online Shop located at: https://shop.altova.com. Students may purchase the new Introduction to XMLSpy and MapForce Database Essentials classes individually for $249. Training coordinators and team managers can purchase blocks of seats for their employees to use as time permits, or they can contact Altova Online Training to schedule a customized series for their groups. Volume discounts may apply.

For more information about class registration, group rates, and special classes, contact Altova Online Training by e-mailing aot@altova.com or filling out the Altova Online Training Request Form at: www.altova.com/wbt_form.asp.> About Altova

Altova accelerates application development and data management projects with software, services, and solutions that enhance productivity and maximize results. As an innovative, customer-focused company and the creator of XMLSpy and other leading XML, data administration, UML, and Web services tools, Altova is the choice of over 2 million clients worldwide, including virtually every Fortune 500 company. With customers ranging from vast development teams in the world's largest organizations to progressive one-person shops, Altova's line of software applications and custom-tailored professional and educational services fulfills a broad spectrum of business needs. Altova is an active member of the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) and Object Management Group (OMG) and is committed to delivering standards-based platform-independent solutions that are powerful, affordable, and easy to use. Altova was founded in 1992 and has headquarters in Beverly, Massachusetts and Vienna, Austria. Visit Altova on the Web at www.altova.com.

Altova, XMLSpy, and MapForce are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of Altova GmbH in the United States and/or other countries. The names of and reference to other companies and products mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.