What is the best software/program to use to make a CD-Rom and a webpage?

[MrsBugi]

I need to make a CD-Rom that will be distributed to several universities, and a webpage that will be uploaded onto the school's websites.

I have used FrontPage and Dreamweaver in the past for webpages, and know basic HTML but nothing beyond that.

I have never created a CD-Rom before. It will need to be interactive and as entertaining as possible with video, etc. elements embedded in it.

What software program(s) would you recommend for each task, the CD-Rom and the webpage?

 

[GeekDrew]

The CD-ROM sounds like it could just hold an offline copy of a website on it. Dreamweaver and FrontPage are both great for designing websites, as far as that goes.

Sorry I can't be of more help... I just don't quite understand your project.

 

[MrsBugi]

Thank you for the information, GeekDrew.

To further explain the project, I am responsible for researching and putting together a presentation on a project focusing on the prevention of violence against women (specifically sexual assault, interpersonal relationship violence, stalking) which is part of a grant funded by the Department of Justice.

I will be required to make the webpages, but most important (and what I am the most uncertain about in terms of a course of action) is the CD-Rom, which will be distributed as an informational aid - it must be entertaining and interactive, with quizzes you can take, etc. I have been given instructions to have a menu pop up as soon as the CD is inserted with three options (as aforementioned) and further instructions.

Would an offline copy of the website I create burned onto a CD-Rom effectively serve that purpose?

 

[GeekDrew]

Possibly. Burning a copy of a website onto a CD would effectively put the information onto the CD - but that will only go as far as the website is designed. I'm not quite sure what to advise you on this - perhaps posting your situation in the "Software - Application" forum would get you more assistance. I do know, however that some companies use Macromedia's Shockwave or Flash to create menus, interactivity, etc., for CD-ROMs. Good luck.

 

[MrsBugi]

I will try that, thank you kindly for your assistance GeekDrew.

 

[notfred]

If you want something professional looking that you're expecting lots of people to see, I'd pay someone who knows what he's doing to make it for you.

 

[alien42]

frontpage is junk. it is kind of like the yugo of wysiwygs except msft makes it. dreamweaver is fine as is just about any design software that does not use frontpage extensions.

 

[toekramp]

no offence, but it sounds like you are in a bit over your head. i'd seek some professional assistance

 

[Drakkon]

My job entails something REALLY similar to what you are trying to do (making CD's that can be played from CD or via the web).
Primarily I use Flash to develop menu systems, Dreamweaver for any scrollable content, and a program called SWFStudio to make the CD version at least as clean as possible.
Flash (the newer versions at least) have specific library items in it availible for learning interactions (quizes) prebuilt in and make for a quick way to get them into your product

 

[MrsBugi]

Originally posted by: Drakkon
My job entails something REALLY similar to what you are trying to do (making CD's that can be played from CD or via the web).
Primarily I use Flash to develop menu systems, Dreamweaver for any scrollable content, and a program called SWFStudio to make the CD version at least as clean as possible.
Flash (the newer versions at least) have specific library items in it availible for learning interactions (quizes) prebuilt in and make for a quick way to get them into your product

Thank you very much for the suggestions. So far, I have the following ordered for me:

Adobe Photoshop, Version CS2 or 7.0

Macromedia Director 8 Shockwave Studio with Fireworks 4

Macromedia Flash Pro 8 Win/Mac

Macromedia Dreamweaver 8

Microsoft Frontpage 2003

SWF Studio V3 or V2

Would you recommend anything else?

I appreciate other's concern with regard to the fact that I may be in over my head, but I have until September to finish the project, and am confident I can do the job well. I learn quickly and will work hard, but may humble myself in a few months if I find it is too much for me by hiring additional help. How much would a contractor for such a job charge per hour, and how many hours would it take? I know it will take me more than a professional would, but I am certainly going to try my hardest.