First off, I would like to congratulate you on your new position and I wish you success in your endeavors.
Your query fits that of an open forum dicussion more than a mere answer, furthermore, there is a lot of speculation on distance learning and what standards should and should not apply. BUT. here is a start.
i am going to email you a pdf file that a British writer compiled in reference to e-learning and the scope of work involved.
2. Look into this book, it is an excellent reference to your new project:
The ASTD E-Learning Handbook: Best Practices, Strategies, and Case Studies for an Emerging Field Written by Allison Rossett its about 40.00USD and the ISBN Number is: ISBN: 007138796X its about 500+ pages
3. Also check this readiness chart out to determine if you have the pieces in place to begin.
http://www.waveinternetcafe.com/oha/rtool.nsf/tool?OpenForm
4. As far as improving the site, opt to take the existing site for a spin. Put yourself in the users seat and ask yourself what you do and do not like about the site. Write these things down and then also have your peers or friends review the current site and get their input. ALSO: check out other e-learning sites and see what they are up to.(Its a common practice :))
5. Tools: ASP, MACROMEDIA, JHTML etc. Thats up to your customer and thier needs.
6. I am going to assume that there is a representative that works with the government layer customer. Find out who the key players are within the firm and how they tie in to the customer layer. Create a Chart and begin working that group to find out what their wants and needs are. You will find that in time, you will be fully inundated with the information you seek. I wish you well!
Todd Kimbrell
