GamaLearn boosts e-learning capabilities with Microsoft technologies

Built on Windows Server 2003, GamaLearn is now able to offer streaming of its e-learning courses over the next generation digital platform, Microsoft Windows Media 9. With this deployment, GamaLearn's portal, www.gamalearn.com, is now offering exciting e-learning services designed to be more appealing to the increasing numbers of corporate and individual e-learners across the Middle East.

"Due to the very nature of our business, we were on the look out for a platform that could provide us with dynamic functionalities, without compromising our security", explained Adel Rizk, General Manager, GamaLearn. "Using advanced Microsoft technologies such as Microsoft's Digital Rights Management allows us to develop efficient and securely networked environments that are not only extremely reliable, but also allow us to free up our technology resources to concentrate on giving our users a great learning experience."

Windows Server 2003 also supports GamaLearn's back-end business processes such as networking, messaging, inventory, customer service systems and databases, as well as its customer-facing e-learning portal. The advanced capabilities of the Microsoft Windows Server 2003 platform support next generation web services, and enable the expansion of the portal's functionality to allow students to post questions or share curricula online, adding a new dimension to distance learning.

"We are very happy with the fact that Microsoft technology is powering a solution that can drive more people towards learning and acquiring knowledge", commented Abdullatif Almulla, General Manager of Microsoft South Gulf.
"In today's rapidly changing world, e-learning is proving to be of increasing importance and more people are choosing it as an alternative to traditional educational methods. It is crucial for any e-learning organization to provide services and solutions that help them to distinguish themselves from others", he added.

The new streaming techniques in Windows Media 9 have also expanded GamaLearn's e-learning educational offerings. Customers had often been frustrated with slow download times, and this was a key issue that GamaLearn sought to address in their revamped portal.

"Now, due to always-on streaming, the waiting time has been considerably reduced. Even at a 56K connection speed, the telecast results are remarkable," said Mr. Rizk.

With Windows Server 2003's advanced features, the GamaLearn community will be able to perform many tasks more securely, from online registering to browsing the final examination results. They will also be able to communicate with colleagues or instructors at any time and from any Internet connection through the portal.

"This is another great example of how Microsoft technology can deliver real value to an organisation's IT infrastructure," added Mr. Almulla.

GamaLearn also chose the Microsoft platform as the company is anticipating its subscriber base will expand rapidly. "Our subscriber base of e-learners is growing steadily and with Windows Server 2003's scalability characteristics, we are able to grow with our students. This will not only enable us to maintain a premium service for everyone, but will also allow us to add new services in the future," added Mr. Rizk.