Noted Child Development Expert Names Inspiration 9 and Kidspiration 3 as Best Children's Vacation Products for Summer 2010

Dr. Toy Endorses Inspiration Software's Premier Visual Learning Tools to Keep Children Engaged and Learning While on Summer Vacation

PORTLAND, Ore. – July 20, 2010
Dr. Toy, one of the nation’s leading child development experts, named Inspiration® Software, Inc.’s premier visual learning tools Inspiration® 9 and Kidspiration® 3 as the Best Children’s Vacation Products for Summer 2010.

The award program was developed by Steveanne Auerbach, Ph.D., (a.k.a. Dr. Toy) to provide parents with a resource for choosing safe, affordable, educationally oriented and stimulating toys and play products for children to use during vacation time at home or on the road. Products named to the list are carefully chosen, using Dr. Toy’s extensive criteria developed over many years. They are evaluated for safety, age-appropriateness, design, durability, lasting play value, cultural and ethnic diversity, good transition from home to school, educational value, learning skills, creativity, improvement in the understanding of the community and the world, value for the price and, naturally, fun.

"As a childhood specialist for 40 years, I have seen the continuous, essential need for more year-round resources to help consumers identify and choose the most appropriate products for all children," said Dr. Toy. "Inspiration and Kidspiration were selected for the 2010 Best Vacation Products because they will provide children with exciting new learning opportunities that will help them not only do better in school, but also give them more constructive activities while traveling or at vacation destinations."

Inspiration 9 for children in grades 6-12, the ultimate thinking and learning tool to comprehend, create, communicate and achieve more, adds this prestigious endorsement to the expanding lists of awards from the education, technology and parenting communities that it has garnered since its launch in January 2010. New capabilities in Inspiration 9, such as support for creating presentations and additional visual learning methodologies, provide an essential framework for thinking and help students develop 21st century skills.

Kidspiration 3, the visual learning software for students in kindergarten through grade 5, supports young learners as they strengthen reading and writing skills, build conceptual understanding in math, and develop thinking skills across the curriculum. Kidspiration 3 has earned more than 20 awards since its launch in January 2008.

"We agree with Dr. Toy – learning for children doesn’t stop when school lets out for the summer. Learners of all ages can use Inspiration and Kidspiration to visually explore, express and write about their vacation experiences in a creative and engaging way," said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder, Inspiration Software. "Having our visual learning software named to the list of the Best Children’s Vacation Products offers parents the information that they need to pick learning tools for their children in the summer and year-round."

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc.'s award-winning software tools, Inspiration, Kidspiration and InspireData®, are based on proven visual learning methodologies that help students think, learn and achieve. With the powerful combination of visual learning and technology, students in grades K-12 learn to clarify thoughts, organize and analyze information, integrate new knowledge and think critically. Founded more than 25 years ago by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's visual learning software tools are used today by more than 25 million students and teachers worldwide.

Inspiration 9 Honored by Association of Educational Publishers Distinguished Achievement Awards

Ultimate Thinking and Learning Tool Sweeps New Awards Program Category

PORTLAND, Ore. – June 22, 2010
Inspiration® 9, the ultimate thinking and learning tool to comprehend, create, communicate and achieve more, recently added two 2010 Association of Educational Publishers (AEP) Distinguished Achievement Awards to its growing list of honors and accolades from the education, technology and parenting communities. The newest version of Inspiration® Software’s visual learning software for learners grade six to adult swept the awards program’s new “Technology & New Media: Alignments Tools” category, taking honors as the best product for both grade ranges 6-8 and 9-12.

For more than four decades, the AEP Awards have honored outstanding resources for teaching and learning. One of the largest and longest running recognition programs in the educational publishing industry, the annual AEP Awards mark the standard for quality, professional educational products and excellence in education marketing.

"Teachers around the country are telling us that the new presentation capabilities and visual view in Inspiration 9 are allowing them to take visual learning in new and powerful directions for their students, helping them build the strong communication and thinking skills that are requisite for 21st century success," said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder, Inspiration Software. "We are proud of the recognition that the ninth generation of our flagship software has earned from the educational publishing community."

New in Inspiration is the Presentation Manager, which students use to create organized and compelling presentations to present and communicate their knowledge and work. The Presentation Manager automatically creates bulleted slides and graphics from a student’s diagram, mind map or outline. Students use this as the starting point to build their oral presentation and handouts and then add slides, speaker notes, talking points, graphics, video and sound to emphasize their points. Inspiration 9 makes it easy for students to include the graphic organizers they created in Diagram and Map Views in their presentations to effectively communicate concepts and ideas they’ve developed. Once their presentation is complete, they can play it directly from Inspiration 9 or from any Macintosh® or Windows® computer, using the Inspiration Presenter available on the installation CD and downloadable from http://www.inspiration.com.

Inspiration also features more visual ways to think and learn, including Map View, which allows students to create and think in mind maps, another proven visual learning methodology that promotes better understanding of relationships and connections among ideas and helps students retain information. Mind maps capture information in a natural, free-flowing style. With Map View, students build visual models, adding ideas branching off a central topic with just one click, and reorganize ideas by simply grafting one branch to another. Graphic images, colors and fonts allow learners to embellish, differentiate and emphasize their ideas. Just like with idea maps, concept maps, graphic organizers and other diagrams created with Inspiration, the process of building a mind map is fluid and visual, complementing the natural way that students think and expand on ideas. As with other diagrams created with Inspiration, mind maps can be instantly transformed into outlines to support the writing process.

For more information about Inspiration 9, go to http://www.inspiration.com/inspiration.

About AEP
The Association of Educational Publishers (AEP) is a nonprofit organization that serves and advances the industry of supplemental educational publishing. The membership of AEP represents the breadth of educational content developers, delivering progressive educational products in all media and for any educational setting.

AEP's thought leadership and market insight have created ground-breaking opportunities for its members to collaborate, network and partner with each other as well as to acquire a voice in the development of government education policy. Founded in 1895, AEP now assists its members in navigating the global realities of educational publishing in the 21st century. For more information, visit www.AEPweb.org.

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc.'s award-winning software tools, Inspiration, Kidspiration® and InspireData®, are based on proven visual learning methodologies that help students think, learn and achieve. With the powerful combination of visual learning and technology, students in grades K-12 learn to clarify thoughts, organize and analyze information, integrate new knowledge and think critically. Founded more than 25 years ago by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's visual learning software tools are used today by more than 25 million students and teachers worldwide.

Inspiration 9 and Kidspiration 3 Honored With Prestigious Recognition From Consumer Parenting Organization

Inspiration Software’s Visual Learning Software Tools Win 2010 iParenting Excellent Products Awards

PORTLAND, Ore. – June 8, 2010
Inspiration® 9 and Kidspiration® 3, Inspiration® Software, Inc.’s premier visual learning software tools for learners from kindergarten through adulthood, are both winners of 2010 iParenting Excellent Products Awards. Inspiration and Kidspiration were selected for recognition from iParenting Media from hundreds of products that were submitted for judging in 17 categories. All products submitted for the iParenting 2010 Excellent Products Awards undergo a thorough evaluation process by a variety of reviewers, including experts and families.

“From the youngest age, learners can build the critical-thinking and communication skills necessary for 21st century success with our visual learning software tools, Inspiration and Kidspiration,” said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder, Inspiration Software. “Recognition for our visual learning tools from parenting organizations, such as this honor from iParenting Media, is a testament to the fact that parents around the country understand how effective Inspiration and Kidspiration are at helping children develop strong thinking and learning skills.”

Inspiration 9 is the ultimate thinking and learning tool to comprehend, create, communicate and achieve more. This is the second honor from a parenting organization for Inspiration 9, the newest version of the company’s visual learning software for learners grade six to adult, which debuted less than six months ago. The visual learning software was also recently honored with the prestigious 2010 Software & Information Industry Association CODiE award.

Inspiration 9 is designed to offer an essential framework for thinking – helping students use 21st century skills to achieve more in all subject areas. Learners use Inspiration to build graphic organizers, including concept maps, webs and idea maps; to visualize and develop ideas; understand and retain concepts; plan and organize work; and communicate and present knowledge. Research shows that visual learning is one of the best methods for teaching thinking skills. Visual learning techniques – graphical ways of working with ideas and presenting information – teach students to clarify their thinking and to process, organize and prioritize information.

When students learn with Inspiration, they build strong critical-thinking, writing and organization skills, as well as good communication skills to effectively share their knowledge and understanding. Used by millions around the world, the software is considered the gold standard of visual learning tools.

Kidspiration 3, the visual learning software for students in kindergarten through grade 5, supports young learners as they strengthen reading and writing skills, build conceptual understanding in math, and develop thinking skills across the curriculum. Launched in January 2008, Kidspiration 3 now boasts more than 20 awards and accolades from top parenting, education and technology industry organizations.

In reading and writing, Kidspiration builds children’s word recognition, vocabulary, comprehension and written expression using visual tools that combine pictures, text and spoken words. With the visual math tools in Kidspiration, children build a strong mathematical foundation for reasoning and problem-solving by using visual representations to understand math concepts.

Using the software’s library of more than 3,000 symbols, children can create graphic organizers including webs, concept maps and Venn diagrams to express their ideas, explore ideas and relationships, and develop understanding. The symbol search capabilities allow them to find the right symbols to express their thoughts and ideas. Students can also use Symbol Maker to create their own symbols, or they can import their own images.

For more information about Inspiration 9 or Kidspiration 3, go to http://www.inspiration.com.

About Inspiration Software, Inc. Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc.’s award-winning software tools, Inspiration, Kidspiration and InspireData®, are based on proven visual learning methodologies that help students think, learn and achieve. With the powerful combination of visual learning and technology, students in grades K-12 learn to clarify thoughts, organize and analyze information, integrate new knowledge, and think critically. Founded more than 25 years ago by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company’s visual learning software tools are used today by more than 25 million students and teachers worldwide.

Inspiration Wins 2010 Software & Information Industry Association CODiE Award for Excellence in Educational Technology

Company's Flagship Visual Learning Software Honored as Best Instructional Solution in Other Curriculum Areas

PORTLAND, Ore. – May 26, 2010
Inspiration®, the ultimate thinking and learning tool to comprehend, create, communicate and achieve more, is the winner of a 2010 Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) CODiE Award for Best Instructional Solution in Other Curriculum Areas. This top honor from the education technology community is the most recent addition to the growing list of honors and accolades for Inspiration 9, the newest version of Inspiration® Software, Inc.'s visual learning software for learners in grade six to adult, which debuted less than six months ago.

"For more than 20 years, millions of students and teachers around the world have used Inspiration to build strong critical-thinking, writing and organization skills, as well as good communication skills," said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder, Inspiration Software. "To have Inspiration recognized with this prestigious honor from our peers in the education technology industry demonstrates that they recognize what teachers tell us every day: Innovative technology combined with visual learning instructional strategies can transform teaching and learning for students."

The CODiE Awards honor the software and information industry's finest products and services, and hold the distinction of being the industry’s only peer-reviewed awards program where companies have the unique opportunity to earn praise from their competitors. This year’s education CODiE winners were selected from more than 327 nominations submitted by 124 companies.

"Now in its 25th year, the CODiE Awards continue to recognize companies that provide the best new technology products and services across a broad array of industries," said Ken Wasch, president, SIIA. "CODiE winners are a prolific testament to the power of technology to deliver innovative solutions to businesses and consumers. SIIA warmly congratulates all of the winners and nominees of the CODiE Awards, whose innovation is essential for continuing America’s leadership in the global knowledge economy."

Inspiration is designed to offer an essential framework for thinking – helping students use 21st century skills to achieve more in all subject areas. Learners use Inspiration to build graphic organizers, including concept maps, webs and idea maps; to visualize and develop ideas; understand and retain concepts; plan and organize work; and communicate and present knowledge.

Among the new capabilities in Inspiration 9 is the Presentation Manager, used by students to create organized and compelling presentations to present and communicate their knowledge and work. The Presentation Manager automatically creates bulleted slides and graphics from a student's diagram, mind map or outline. Students use this as the starting point to build their oral presentation and handouts and then add slides, speaker notes, talking points, graphics, video and sound to emphasize their points. Inspiration 9 ships with numerous ready-made, professional-quality themes to quickly develop a visually appealing presentation, or students can create their own themes to personalize their presentations. Once their presentation is complete, they can play it directly from Inspiration or from any Macintosh® or Windows® computer using the free Inspiration Presenter available on the installation CD and at http://www.inspiration.com.

Teachers are also finding innovative ways to integrate the new visual view, Map View, into instruction. Map View allows students to create and think in mind maps, another proven visual learning methodology that promotes better understanding of the relationships and connections among ideas, and helps students retain information. Mind maps capture information in a natural, free-flowing style. With Map View, students build visual models, adding ideas branching off a central topic with just one click, and reorganize ideas by simply grafting one branch to another. Graphic images, colors and fonts allow learners to embellish, differentiate and emphasize their ideas. Just like with idea maps, concept maps, graphic organizers and other diagrams created with Inspiration, the process of building a mind map is fluid and visual, complementing the natural way that students think and expand on ideas. As with other diagrams created with Inspiration, mind maps can be instantly transformed into outlines to support the writing process.

For more information about Inspiration, go to http://www.inspiration.com.

About SIIA
The Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) is the principal trade association for the software and digital content industry. SIIA provides global services in government relations, business development, corporate education and intellectual property protection to 500 leading software and information companies. For further information, visit www.siia.net.

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc.'s award-winning software tools, Inspiration, Kidspiration® and InspireData®, are based on proven visual learning methodologies that help students think, learn and achieve. With the powerful combination of visual learning and technology, students in grades K-12 learn to clarify thoughts, organize and analyze information, integrate new knowledge and think critically. Founded more than 25 years ago by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's visual learning software tools are used today by more than 25 million students and teachers worldwide.

Inspiration 9 Honored With The National Parenting Center's 2010 Seal of Approval

Newest Version of Inspiration Software's Flagship Product Named to Prestigious List of Top Products for Children

PORTLAND, Ore. – May 12, 2010
The National Parenting Center (TNPC), one of the country's top evaluators of quality products for children, has bestowed its prestigious Seal of Approval on Inspiration® 9, the newest version of Inspiration® Software, Inc.'s visual learning software for learners grade six to adult. Inspiration 9 is the ultimate thinking and learning tool to comprehend, create, communicate and achieve more.

TNPC's Seal of Approval program, created in 1990, identifies the finest products and services being marketed to the parent/child audience. From educational and entertainment products and equipment to travel destinations, the consumer-oriented testing process solicits evaluations from parents and their children. More than 1.5 million parents will visit the TNPC Web site this year to read product reviews that will guide the decisions about the products they select for their children.

"At Inspiration Software, our products are developed to put the power of visual learning in the hands of learners both in school and at home," said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder. "This recognition for Inspiration 9 from one of the premier reviewers of products for children is a wonderful addition to the list of honors for the newest version of our flagship software."

Launched in January of this year, Inspiration 9 helps learners build strong critical-thinking, writing and organizational skills, as well as good communication skills to effectively share their knowledge and understanding. Used by millions of students and teachers around the world, the software is considered the gold standard of visual learning tools.

Inspiration is designed to offer an essential framework for thinking – helping students use 21st century skills to achieve more in all subject areas. Learners use Inspiration to build graphic organizers, including concept maps, webs and idea maps; to visualize and develop ideas; understand and retain concepts; plan and organize work; and communicate and present knowledge.

Among the new capabilities in Inspiration 9 is the Presentation Manager, used by students to create organized and compelling presentations to present and communicate their knowledge and work. The Presentation Manager automatically creates bulleted slides and graphics from a student’s diagram, mind map or outline. Students use this as the starting point to build their oral presentation and handouts and then add slides, speaker notes, talking points, graphics, video and sound to emphasize their points. Inspiration 9 ships with numerous ready-made, professional-quality themes to quickly develop a visually appealing presentation, or students can create their own themes to personalize their presentations. Once their presentation is complete, they can play it directly from Inspiration or from any Macintosh® or Windows® computer using the free Inspiration Presenter available on the installation CD and at http://www.inspiration.com.

Teachers are also finding innovative ways to integrate the new visual view, Map View, into instruction. Map View allows students to create and think in mind maps, another proven visual learning methodology that promotes better understanding of the relationships and connections among ideas, and helps students retain information. Mind maps capture information in a natural, free-flowing style. With Map View, students build visual models, adding ideas branching off a central topic with just one click, and reorganize ideas by simply grafting one branch to another. Graphic images, colors and fonts allow learners to embellish, differentiate and emphasize their ideas. Just like with idea maps, concept maps, graphic organizers and other diagrams created with Inspiration, the process of building a mind map is fluid and visual, complementing the natural way that students think and expand on ideas. As with other diagrams created with Inspiration, mind maps can be instantly transformed into outlines to support the writing process.

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc.'s award-winning software tools, Inspiration, Kidspiration® and InspireData®, are based on proven visual learning methodologies that help students think, learn and achieve. With the powerful combination of visual learning and technology, students in grades K-12 learn to clarify thoughts, organize and analyze information, integrate new knowledge, and think critically. Founded more than 25 years ago by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's visual learning software tools are used today by more than 25 million students and teachers worldwide.

Inspiration Software's Family of Visual Learning Tools Takes Top Honors in 16th Annual Best Educational Software Awards

Inspiration, Kidspiration and InspireData Honored for Building Thinking Skills

PORTLAND, Ore. – April 28, 2010
Inspiration® Software, Inc.'s family of visual learning software tools – Inspiration®, Kidspiration® and InspireData® – are all winners in the 16th Annual Best Educational Software (BESSIE) Awards, sponsored by ComputED Learning Center, San Diego's leading computer education resource.

The BESSIE Awards target innovative and content-rich programs and Web sites that provide parents and teachers with technology to foster educational excellence. This is the second time in eight months that Inspiration Software’s family of visual learning software tools has earned honors from a ComputED Learning Center awards program. In September 2009, the company was a triple-crown winner in the center’s 14th Annual Education Software Review Awards (EDDIE Awards), earning honors for Inspiration, Kidspiration and InspireData.

"When our family of educational software is honored with awards chosen by educators, such as the BESSIEs, it demonstrates that teachers recognize what the research supports: combining technology with visual learning instructional strategies creates powerful tools for helping students build 21st century thinking skills," said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder, Inspiration Software. "We are proud to add the 16th Annual BESSIE Awards to our list of honors for Inspiration, Kidspiration and InspireData."

This is the second award for Inspiration since the January launch of the newest version of the best-selling visual learning software. With Inspiration 9, students in grades 6 through adult comprehend, create, communicate and achieve more. New capabilities in Inspiration 9, such as support for creating presentations and additional visual learning methodologies, provide an essential framework for thinking and help students develop 21st century skills. Inspiration was recognized in the "Thinking Skills" category for high school students.

Kidspiration 3, the visual learning software for students in kindergarten through grade 5, adds to its growing list of honors and accolades with a BESSIE award in the "Thinking Skills" category for early elementary students. Kidspiration supports young learners as they strengthen reading and writing skills, build conceptual understanding in math, and develop thinking skills across the curriculum. This is the 19th award for Kidspiration 3 since its launch in early 2008.

InspireData, the visual way to explore and understand data, won a BESSIE award in the "Data Exploration" category for upper elementary students. Students in grades 4 to 12 use InspireData to investigate, analyze, and represent data and information in dynamic graphs and charts.

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc.'s award-winning software tools, Inspiration, Kidspiration and InspireData, are based on proven visual learning methodologies that help students think, learn and achieve. With the powerful combination of visual learning and technology, students in grades K-12 learn to clarify thoughts, organize and analyze information, integrate new knowledge, and think critically. Founded more than 25 years ago by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's visual learning software tools are used today by more than 25 million students and teachers worldwide.

Inspiration and Kidspiration Bring Home the Gold in the Mom's Choice Awards

Inspiration Software's Visual Learning Software Tools Named Among the Best in Family-Friendly Products, Services and Media

PORTLAND, Ore. – March 16, 2010
Inspiration® and Kidspiration® from Inspiration® Software, Inc., both took gold honors in the Mom’s Choice Awards® (MCA), honoring excellence in family-friendly media, products and services. The MCA seal helps families and educators navigate a vast array of products and services and make informed decisions. The visual learning software tools were evaluated for this honor by a panel of judges including experts in education as well as children, librarians, performing artists, authors and scientists.

"Visual learning helps students of all ages think critically and creatively, and ultimately build 21st century skills," said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder, Inspiration Software. "Top honors from the Mom’s Choice Awards for Inspiration and Kidspiration are a testament to the widespread recognition of the value of this important learning tool."

Used by millions of students and teachers around the world, Inspiration, an MCA Gold recipient for grades 6-12, is considered the gold standard of visual learning tools. When students grade 6 to adult learn with Inspiration, they build strong critical-thinking, writing and organizational skills, as well as good communication skills to effectively share their knowledge and understanding.

Inspiration 9 was launched in January 2010. With the ninth generation of its flagship software, Inspiration Software has taken the proven ways that visual learning builds critical-thinking skills and improves student achievement in new directions, making the world’s leading visual learning tool even more powerful. New capabilities in Inspiration 9 provide an essential framework for thinking and help students develop 21st century skills.

Now with the new Presentation Manager in Inspiration 9, students can create organized and compelling presentations to present and communicate their knowledge and work. In addition to Diagram and Outline view for taking notes, organizing information and structuring writing for planning papers and reports, Inspiration 9 features a new visual view, Map View. This allows students to create and think in mind maps, another proven visual learning methodology that promotes better understanding of relationships and connections among ideas and helps students retain information.

Kidspiration 3 is an MCA Gold recipient for grades K-5. Kidspiration 3 is the visual way for young learners to explore and understand words, numbers and concepts. Kidspiration supports children as they strengthen reading and writing skills, build conceptual understanding in math and develop thinking skills across the curriculum. In reading and writing, Kidspiration builds children's word recognition, vocabulary, comprehension and written expression, using visual tools that combine pictures, text and spoken words. With the visual math tools in Kidspiration, children build a strong mathematical foundation for reasoning and problem-solving by using visual representations to understand math concepts.

This year's MCA judges included Dr. Twila C. Liggett, 10-time Emmy-winner, professor and founder of PBS's "Reading Rainbow"; Julie Aigner-Clark, creator of Baby Einstein and The Safe Side Project; Jodee Blanco, "New York Times" bestselling author; Priscilla Dunstan, creator of the Dunstan Baby Language; Patricia Rossi, host of NBC's "Manners Minute"; Dr. Letitia S. Wright, host of the Wright Place TV Show; and Catherine Witcher, M.Ed., special-needs expert and founder of Precision Education, Inc. MCA judges are bound by a strict code of ethics that ensures expert and objective analysis free from any manufacturer association. The evaluation process uses a proprietary methodology in which entries are scored on a number of elements including production, quality, design, educational value, entertainment value, originality, appeal and cost.

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc.'s award-winning software tools, Inspiration, Kidspiration and InspireData®, are based on proven visual learning methodologies that help students think, learn and achieve. With the powerful combination of visual learning and technology, students in grades K-12 learn to clarify thoughts, organize and analyze information, integrate new knowledge and think critically. Founded more than 25 years ago by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's visual learning software tools are used today by more than 25 million students and teachers worldwide.

Inspiration Software's Family of Visual Learning Software Tools Moves to the Finalist Round of the 2010 SIIA CODiE Awards

Leader in Visual Thinking and Learning One of Six Education Companies With Three or More Products Named as Finalists in Celebrated Award Program

PORTLAND, Ore. – March 9, 2010
All of the members of Inspiration® Software, Inc.'s family of visual learning software tools are finalists in the 2010 Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) CODiE Awards. The leader in visual thinking and learning was one of six education companies with three or more products reaching the finalist round in this celebrated awards program showcasing the software and information industry’s finest products and services.

The company's flagship visual learning software, Inspiration®, is a finalist in the Best Instructional Solution in Other Curriculum Areas category. Kidspiration® earned finalist honors in the Best Education Technology Solution for Productivity/Creativity category, and InspireData® was honored in the Best Social Studies Instructional Solution category.

The three widely adopted visual learning software tools are among 88 products from 54 companies selected as finalists from more than 327 nominations submitted by 124 companies. Nominated products underwent an intensive review by subject matter experts, analysts, journalists and others with deep experience in the field.

"As our family of visual learning software tools has grown, we have based developments on our ongoing conversations with the talented, creative teachers who use Inspiration, Kidspiration and InspireData to help their students think and learn," said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder, Inspiration Software. "It is a great honor to have all three of our products recognized as finalists in the SIIA CODiE Awards in the same year for the first time."

Inspiration is the ultimate thinking and learning tool to comprehend, create, communicate and achieve more. When students grade six to adult learn with Inspiration, they build strong critical-thinking, writing and organizational skills, as well as good communication skills to effectively share their knowledge and understanding. Used by millions of students and teachers around the world, the software is considered the gold standard of visual learning tools. Inspiration is designed to offer one convenient place for students to successfully plan, research and complete projects in all subject areas. Learners use Inspiration to build graphic organizers, including concept maps, webs and idea maps; to plan and organize; research and evaluate; and comprehend and communicate.

Created for K-5 learners, Kidspiration is the visual way to explore and understand words, numbers and concepts. Kidspiration supports children as they strengthen reading and writing skills, build conceptual understanding in math, and develop thinking skills across the curriculum. In reading and writing, Kidspiration builds children’s word recognition, vocabulary, comprehension and written expression using visual tools that combine pictures, text and spoken words. With the visual math tools in Kidspiration, children build a strong mathematical foundation for reasoning and problem-solving by using visual representations to understand math concepts.

Students in grades 4-12 use InspireData, the visual way to explore and understand data, to build critical data analysis skills. Applying the proven strategies of visual learning to data literacy, InspireData helps students discover meaning as they collect and explore data in a dynamic inquiry process. In social studies, students use InspireData to understand patterns and relationships. Dynamic tables and graphs give students a visual way to analyze statistics, illustrate data sets and identify historical and economic trends. Students and teachers collect data using InspireData’s e-Survey tool, library and Internet research, or one of the ready-to-use InspireData social studies databases. Students explore the best ways to represent and analyze their data by experimenting with multiple plot types such as Venn diagrams, and bar, stack, axis and pie charts. Students strengthen research skills by recording their observations and analyses using the Notes area and Slide Show tool.

"This is the 25th year we have recognized excellence through the CODiE Awards program," noted Ken Wasch, president, SIIA. "The competition is always tough, and in this economic climate, companies are doing even more to innovate. Excellence within the education technology industry shines through in the products selected as finalists, and we are very excited to see how the voting goes this year."

The products that qualified will now be reviewed by members of SIIA, who will vote on winners for all 24 categories. The winners will be announced at a special CODiE Awards Dinner on May 24th, which will be held in conjunction with the 2010 Ed Tech Industry Summit.

About SIIA
The Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) is the principal trade association for the software and digital content industry. SIIA provides global services in government relations, business development, corporate education and intellectual property protection to 500 leading software and information companies. For further information, visit www.siia.net.

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc.'s award-winning software tools, Inspiration, Kidspiration and InspireData, are based on proven visual learning methodologies that help students think, learn and achieve. With the powerful combination of visual learning and technology, students in grades K-12 learn to clarify thoughts, organize and analyze information, integrate new knowledge and think critically. Founded more than 25 years ago by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's visual learning software tools are used today by more than 25 million students and teachers worldwide.

Inspiration Software's Premier Visual Learning Tools Earn "Best Products 2010" Honors From iParenting Media Awards

Inspiration and Kidspiration Kick Off New Year With Endorsement From Top Online Parenting Community

PORTLAND, Ore. – Jan 27, 2010

Inspiration® Software's premier visual learning tools have kicked off the new year with 2010 Best Products Honors from iParenting Media. Inspiration® and Kidspiration® were selected for the recognition from hundreds of products that were submitted for judging in 17 categories.

All products submitted for the iParenting Media Awards Best Products of 2010 underwent a thorough evaluation process by a variety of individuals, including experts and families. This recognition marks both visual learning software tools’ third honor from the parenting community in the last two months.

“Having Inspiration and Kidspiration earn recognition as two of the best products of 2010 from iParenting Media is a great way to start the new year,” said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder, Inspiration Software. “It is particularly exciting to know that the parenting community understands the important role that visual learning plays in helping students build thinking and learning skills.”

For Inspiration, being named among the Best Products of 2010 by iParenting Media falls closely on the heels of the early January launch of the next generation of the bestselling visual learning software. With Inspiration 9, students will comprehend, create, communicate and achieve more. New capabilities in Inspiration 9, such as support for creating presentations and additional visual learning methodologies, provide an essential framework for thinking and help students develop 21st century skills.

The iParenting Media Award Best Products of 2010 is the 19th award for Kidspiration 3 since its launch in early 2008. Kidspiration 3, the visual learning software for students in kindergarten through grade 5, supports young learners as they strengthen reading and writing skills, build conceptual understanding in math and develop thinking skills across the curriculum.

About iParenting Medi

iParenting.com, an online community for parents and parents-to-be, is part of Disney Online’s network of family-focused Web sites including Disney Family.com, FamilyFun.com and Wondertime.com. Founded in 1996, the company has grown from a single pregnancy site, www.PregancyToday.com, to an award-winning network of more than 40 sites, in English and Spanish. The iParenting sites address a range of parenting issues from preconception through raising teenagers and beyond. iParenting Media’s Editor-in-Chief Elisa Ast All, MSJ, writes a monthly newspaper column and co-hosts a Chicago-based radio show, Points on Parenting. iParenting Media produces the highly respected iParenting Media Awards program, an ISO9001:2000 certified product review and awards program. Consumers can learn more about products winning iParenting Media Awards, and where to purchase the products via a retailer network online directory, by visiting http://www.iParentingMediaAwards.com/consumer.

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc.’s award-winning software tools, Inspiration, Kidspiration and InspireData®, are based on proven visual learning methodologies that help students think, learn and achieve. With the powerful combination of visual learning and technology, students in grades K-12 learn to clarify thoughts, organize and analyze information, integrate new knowledge and think critically. Founded more than 25 years ago by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company’s visual learning software tools are used today by more than 25 million students and teachers worldwide.

Two Top Parent Information Sites Recommend Visual Learning Tools From Inspiration Software as Best Software Products for Children

PORTLAND, Ore. – Dec. 9, 2009

Inspiration® and Kidspiration® are wrapping up 2009 with their second set of honors from a national parent information Web site, as they have now been named to the iParenting Media Awards’ list of Outstanding Products of 2009. The visual learning tools from Inspiration Software, Inc., the leader in visual thinking and learning, were also recently awarded The National Parenting Center's 2010 Seal of Approval, adding to both products' long list of accolades from the education, technology and parenting communities.

Inspiration and Kidspiration were selected for the recognition from iParenting Media from hundreds of products that were submitted for judging in 17 categories. All products submitted for the iParenting Media Awards Outstanding Products of 2009 underwent a thorough evaluation process by a variety of individuals, including experts and families.

"The second recognition in as many weeks for Inspiration and Kidspiration from the parenting community supports our belief that students can use visual learning to build critical thinking skills both at school and at home," said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder, Inspiration Software. "It is exciting to see our software listed among the high-quality products for children that the iParenting judges recognized as the best of 2009."

Inspiration is the essential tool to visualize, think, organize and learn. Inspiration provides powerful support for critical thinking, comprehension and writing, and learners in grade 6 to adult rely on Inspiration to plan, research and complete projects successfully.

Kidspiration 3, the visual learning software for students in kindergarten through grade 5, supports young learners as they strengthen reading and writing skills, build conceptual understanding in math and develop thinking skills across the curriculum. The iParenting Media Award Outstanding Products of 2009 is the 18th award for Kidspiration 3 since its launch in early 2008.

About iParenting Media

iParenting.com, an online community for parents and parents-to-be, is part of Disney Online's network of family-focused Web sites including Disney Family.com, FamilyFun.com and Wondertime.com. Founded in 1996, the company has grown from a single pregnancy site, www.PregancyToday.com, to an award-winning network of more than 40 sites, in English and Spanish. The iParenting sites address a range of parenting issues from preconception through raising teenagers and beyond. iParenting Media's Editor-in-Chief Elisa Ast All, MSJ, writes a monthly newspaper column and co-hosts a Chicago-based radio show, Points on Parenting. iParenting Media produces the highly respected iParenting Media Awards program, an ISO9001:2000 certified product review and awards program. Consumers can learn more about products winning iParenting Media Awards, and where to purchase the products via a retailer network online directory, by visiting http://www.iParentingMediaAwards.com/consumer.

About Inspiration Software, Inc.

Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc.'s award-winning software tools, Inspiration, Kidspiration and InspireData®, are based on proven visual learning methodologies that help students think, learn and achieve. With the powerful combination of visual learning and technology, students in grades K-12 learn to clarify thoughts, organize and analyze information, integrate new knowledge and think critically. Founded more than 25 years ago by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's visual learning software tools are used today by more than 25 million students and teachers worldwide.

Inspiration and Kidspiration Earn The National Parenting Center's 2010 Seal of Approval

Visual Learning Software Tools Praised for Encouraging Creative Thinking, Also Named to Holiday 2009 Seal of Approval Report

PORTLAND, Ore. – Dec. 2, 2009

The National Parenting Center (TNPC), one of the country's top evaluators of quality products for children, has given its stamp of approval to Kidspiration® and Inspiration® from Inspiration Software, Inc., the leader in visual thinking and learning. Both visual learning software tools have earned the group's 2010 Seal of Approval and were named to its Holiday 2009 Seal of Approval Report. More than 1 million parents will visit the TNPC Web site between now and the holidays to read product reviews as they prepare their shopping lists.

TNPC reviewers had high praise for Inspiration, the essential tool to visualize, think organize and learn: "The learning and thinking software that broke the mold and continues to lead the way when it comes to innovative visual realization on the computer continues to impress testers year after year. Whether they are building graphic organizers like concept maps, mind maps, idea maps, diagrams and expansive webs, the process is remarkable in just how effective it is at both freeing and uncluttering the mind to either accomplish a task or unearth new ideas. This software is a gift that you give to your child. Then you step back and watch as they discover just what they can do."

The reviewers were equally effusive in their evaluation of Kidspiration, the visual learning software for students in kindergarten through grade 5: "Like its older brother, the multiple Seal award-winning Inspiration, Kidspiration develops thinking, literacy and numeracy skills for elementary aged children. Back again in the Seal winners circle with a new version, Kidspiration again builds on its core strengths, enhancing word recognition, vocabulary, comprehension and written expression. New skills like reasoning and problem-solving are great additions. Whether you are a home schooler or just want to give your children a different kind of software program that hands them a unique set of tools to clarify their thoughts and organize information, Kidspiration does it and does it like nothing else we have seen. Users found that their kids were able to free their minds and think more creatively with this tool at their fingertips."

This is the 17th award for Kidspiration 3 since its launch in early 2008.

"The endorsement of The National Parenting Center means a great deal to us at Inspiration Software because we value both the power of our products for learning at home, as well as the important voice that parents have in the decisions that schools make when choosing learning tools," said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder. "As parents shop for gifts this holiday season, I hope they will consider the ways that our visual learning software can help learners of all ages think critically and creatively, and look forward to the countless hours of learning and fun that they will have with Inspiration and Kidspiration."

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc.'s award-winning software tools, Inspiration, Kidspiration and InspireData®, are based on proven visual learning methodologies that help students think, learn and achieve. With the powerful combination of visual learning and technology, students in grades K-12 learn to clarify thoughts, organize and analyze information, integrate new knowledge and think critically. Founded more than 25 years ago by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's visual learning software tools are used today by more than 25 million students and teachers worldwide.

Inspiration Software Sweeps 14th Annual Educational Software Review Awards

Inspiration, Kidspiration and InspireData Honored by ComputED Learning Center

PORTLAND, Ore. – Sept. 18, 2009
Inspiration Software®, Inc., the leader in visual thinking and learning, was a triple-crown winner in the 14th Annual Education Software Review Awards (EDDIE Awards), with honors for Kidspiration®, Inspiration® and InspireData®. The EDDIE Awards are sponsored by ComputED Learning Center, San Diego's leading computer education resource.

The EDDIE Awards target innovative and content-rich programs and Web sites that augment the classroom curriculum and improve teacher productivity, providing parents and teachers with the technology to foster educational excellence. Selection criteria include academic content, potential for broad classroom use, technical merit, subject approach and management system. Winners are selected from titles submitted by publishers from around the world.

"It is always exciting when educators recognize our visual learning software tools with awards," said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder, Inspiration Software. "However, it is particularly gratifying to see all three products – Inspiration, Kidspiration and InspireData – recognized by this group of leaders in education technology."

Kidspiration 3, the visual learning software for students in kindergarten through grade 5, was honored in the "Thinking Skills" category for early elementary students. Kidspiration supports students as they strengthen reading and writing skills, build conceptual understanding in math and develop thinking skills across the curriculum. This is the 14th award for Kidspiration 3 since its launch in early 2008.

Inspiration, the essential tool to visualize, think, organize and learn, was recognized in the "Thinking Skills" category for upper elementary students. Learners grade 6 to adult rely on Inspiration to plan, research and complete projects successfully.

InspireData, the visual way to explore and understand data, won an EDDIE award in the "Data Exploration" category for upper elementary students. Students grades 4 to 12 use InspireData to investigate, analyze and represent data and information in dynamic graphs and charts. 

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc.'s award-winning software tools, Inspiration, Kidspiration and InspireData, are based on proven visual learning methodologies that help students think, learn and achieve. With the powerful combination of visual learning and technology, students in grades K-12 learn to clarify thoughts, organize and analyze information, integrate new knowledge and think critically. Founded more than 25 years ago by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company’s visual learning software tools are used today by more than 25 million students and teachers worldwide.

Essential Tool to Visualize, Think, Organize and Learn Honored as Best Reading and Language Instruction Software for Grades 6-8

PORTLAND, OR — June 19, 2007
Inspiration® 8, the essential tool to visualize, think, organize and learn, is the winner of a 2007 Distinguished Achievement Award from the Association of Educational Publishers (AEP). The visual learning software was honored as the best "Reading and Language Instruction Software for Grades 6-8."

Designed to offer one convenient place for students to successfully plan, research and complete projects, Inspiration Software's® flagship visual learning software provides powerful support for critical thinking, comprehension and writing in all curriculum areas.

Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, the Distinguished Achievement Awards recognize the best educational materials — such as books, periodicals, educational toys and software — within subject categories and by audience.

"We are very proud of Inspiration 8 and the innovative ways that teachers around the world are using it to help their students build the thinking skills necessary for 21st century success," said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder, Inspiration Software. "It is exciting to have our visual learning software recognized by the educational publishing community."

This latest honor for Inspiration 8 closely follows its recognition earlier this year with a 2007 Codie Award from the Software & Information Industry Association for "Best Education Technology Solution for Productivity/Creativity."

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc.'s award-winning software tools, Inspiration, Kidspiration® and InspireData^®, are based on proven visual learning methodologies that help students think, learn and achieve. With the powerful combination of visual learning and technology, students in grades K-12 learn to clarify thoughts, organize and analyze information, integrate new knowledge and think critically. Founded 25 years ago by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's visual learning software tools are used today by more than 25 million students and teachers worldwide.

PORTLAND, OR — May 1, 2007
Inspiration Software® was recently honored with two 2007 Best Educational Software Awards (BESSIES) for its visual learning tools Inspiration® 8 and InspireData^®. Inspiration 8, the latest version of the company's flagship tool for students grades 6-12, received the BESSIE Award in the multi-level "Thinking Skills" category. Students use Inspiration to plan, research and complete projects successfully. This is the tenth consecutive year that Inspiration has received this honor. Just released last summer, InspireData was a newcomer to the Bessies this year, and received an award for best multi-level "Research Tool." InspireData applies the proven strategies of visual learning to data literacy, inspiring students in grades 4-12 to discover meaning as they collect and explore data in a dynamic inquiry process.

ComputED Learning Center and the Educational Software Preview Service of the San Diego Center for Educational Technology present the annual BESSIE Awards to recognize innovative and content rich programs and provide parents and teachers with a guide to the best children's educational software currently available. For more information about the ComputED Learning Center and the BESSIE awards, visit: http://computedgazette.com/.

About Inspiration Software
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc. develops and publishes innovative software tools that inspire learners of all ages to brainstorm, organize, plan and create. With more than 25 million users worldwide, the company's award-winning software is revolutionizing visual learning in education—inspiring students to develop strong thinking and organizational skills and improve their academic performance. Founded by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.

Visual Learning Software Recognized as "Best Education Technology Solution for Productivity/Creativity"

PORTLAND, OR — May 1, 2007
Inspiration® 8, the essential tool to visualize, think, organize and learn, received a 2007 Codie Award from the Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA). Inspiration Software's® flagship product was recognized as the "Best Education Technology Solution for Productivity/Creativity."

Established in 1986, the Codie Awards recognize 72 categories of outstanding products and services. This year's winners were chosen from more than 1,197 nominations — the most in the history of the awards — for the excellence of their products, services, corporate leadership and philanthropy.

"We developed Inspiration 8 based on more than 10 years of feedback from innovative educators who use visual learning to help their students build thinking, writing and comprehension skills across the curriculum," said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder, Inspiration Software. "It is exciting to have this newest version of Inspiration recognized by the software and information industry."

Launched in February 2006, Inspiration 8 helps students in grades 6-12 develop a deeper understanding of difficult concepts and build stronger critical thinking skills. New and enhanced capabilities — including Inspiration Web Resources — offer students one convenient place to successfully plan, research and complete projects.

"I applaud all the companies selected as winners or finalists in this year's Codie Awards," said Ken Wasch, president, SIIA. "The software and information industry continues to move at a break-neck pace. New technology and business model innovations are constantly emerging and taking root. Being recognized by your peers for getting to and staying at the head of the pack in such a dynamic environment is a major accomplishment, and it is one of the reasons why the Codie Awards hold such a special place in our industry."

The first version of Inspiration developed specifically for education debuted nearly a decade ago and today is used by more than 17 million students worldwide and in more than 60 percent of U.S. school districts. This is Inspiration's fourth Codie Award.

About the Software & Information Industry Association
The Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) is the principal trade association for the software and digital content industry. SIIA provides global services in government relations, business development, corporate education and intellectual property protection to more than 800 leading software and information companies. For further information, visit www.siia.net.

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc.'s award-winning software tools, Inspiration, Kidspiration® and InspireData^®, are based on proven visual learning methodologies that help students think, learn and achieve. With the powerful combination of visual learning and technology, students in grades K-12 learn to clarify thoughts, organize and analyze information, integrate new knowledge and think critically. Founded 25 years ago by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's visual learning software tools are used today by more than 25 million students and teachers worldwide.

PORTLAND, OR - April/May 2007
Inspiration Software® was honored to receive top pick for education software for its flagship visual learning tool Inspiration® for the second year in a row in Edutopia magazine's readers' survey. Published in the April/May 2007 issue, the survey ranks Microsoft® Office in 2nd place this year, with Vernier's Logger Pro® and Google Earth™ in 3rd and 4th places respectively. Inspiration is specifically targeted toward helping students in grades 6-12 plan, organize and research projects across the curriculum. For more information about Inspiration, please visit www.inspiration.com.

Edutopia is a publication of the George Lucas Educational Foundation (GLEF), which was founded in 1991 as a nonprofit operating foundation to celebrate and encourage innovation in schools. GLEF's mission is to document, disseminate, and advocate for exemplary programs in K-12 public schools to help these practices spread nationwide. For more information, please see http://www.edutopia.org/.

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc.'s award-winning software tools, Inspiration, Kidspiration® and InspireData^®, are based on proven visual learning methodologies that help students think, learn and achieve. With the powerful combination of visual learning and technology, students in grades K-12 learn to clarify thoughts, organize and analyze information, integrate new knowledge and think critically. Founded 25 years ago by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's visual learning software tools are used today by more than 25 million students and teachers worldwide.
 

PORTLAND, OR — September 29, 2006
Inspiration Software®, Inc. announced today that Inspiration® 8 was honored with a 2006 Award of Excellence from Technology and Learning Magazine. The prestigious 24-year-old awards recognition program honored 55 of the best curriculum products of 2006, as chosen by more than 35 experienced educator-judges. The complete list of winners, as well as detailed product descriptions and judges' comments, will be featured in the December 2006 Awards Issue of Technology and Learning Magazine.

Released in February 2006, Inspiration 8's new and enhanced capabilities make it the essential learning tool to help students visualize, think, organize and learn. For more information about what’s new in Inspiration 8, including the Starter screen, a keyword symbol search, more inspiring templates, enhanced drag-and-drop capabilities, Word Guide integrated dictionary and thesaurus, and access to Inspiration Web Resources, please visit: http://www.inspiration.com/productinfo/
inspiration/inspiration8/index.cfm.

About Inspiration Software
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc. develops and publishes innovative software tools that inspire learners of all ages to brainstorm, organize, plan and create. With more than 15 million users worldwide, the company's award-winning software is revolutionizing visual learning in education—inspiring students to develop strong thinking and organizational skills and improve their academic performance. Founded by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.
 

PORTLAND, OR — August 11, 2006
Inspiration Software® was honored with three 2006 Education Software Review Awards (EDDIES) for its visual learning tools Kidspiration®, Inspiration® and Inspiration® for Palm OS®. Now in its 11th year, this annual awards program is presented by San Diego's ComputED Learning Center, and targets innovative and content-rich programs and websites which provide parents and teachers with the technology to foster educational excellence—including augmenting the classroom curriculum and improving teacher productivity. Winners are selected from titles submitted by software publishers around the world and selection is based on academic content, potential for broad classroom use, technical merit, subject approach and management system. All submitted titles are made available to school districts, teachers, and the public through ComputED and the Educational Software Preview Service of San Diego Center for Educational Technology (a nonprofit organization).

Inspiration 8, the latest version of the company's flagship visual learning software for students grades six through adult, received the EDDIE Award in the multi-level "Thinking Skills" category. Kidspiration 2.1, the visual way to think, write and comprehend for students in kindergarten through fifth grade, was the winner in the "Thinking Skills" category for upper elementary. This is the 11th consecutive year that Inspiration has received this honor and the sixth year for Kidspiration. Inspiration for Palm OS was also an EDDIE winner for a second time, this year in the PDA "Thinking Skills" category. For more information about the ComputED Learning Center and the EDDIE awards, visit: http://computedgazette.com/.

About Inspiration Software
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc. develops and publishes innovative software tools that inspire learners of all ages to brainstorm, organize, plan and create. With more than 15 million users worldwide, the company's award-winning software is revolutionizing visual learning in education—inspiring students to develop strong thinking and organizational skills and improve their academic performance. Founded by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.

PORTLAND, OR—May 3, 2006
Inspiration Software® recently received the Editor's Choice award for Inspiration® 8 from Children's Technology Review. Released in February 2006, Inspiration 8's new and enhanced capabilities make it the essential learning tool to help students visualize, think, organize and learn. For more information about what's new in Inspiration 8, including the Starter screen, a keyword symbol search, more inspiring templates, enhanced drag-and-drop capabilities, Word Guide integrated dictionary and thesaurus, and access to Inspiration Web Resources, please visit: http://www.inspiration.com/productinfo/
inspiration/inspiration8/index.cfm.

Children's Technology Review (CTR) is an independent survey, published monthly, of commercial interactive media products designed for children, aged birth- to 15-years. These are the products that children use for both fun and learning, either at home and/or at school. They include software, video games, interactive toys, web sites that a child might visit, and so on. For more information about Children's Technology Review, visit www.childrenssoftware.com.

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc. develops and publishes innovative software tools that inspire learners of all ages to brainstorm, organize, plan and create. With more than 15 million users worldwide, the company's award-winning software is revolutionizing visual learning in education—inspiring students to develop strong thinking and organizational skills and improve their academic performance. Founded by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.

PORTLAND, OR — May 3, 2006
Inspiration Software®, Inc. announced today that Inspiration® 8 was honored with an Excellent Products of 2006 award by iParenting Media. iParenting Media's Award Program honors the best products in the children's media and juvenile products industries. Inspiration 8 was recognized in the Software category. iParenting Media produces parenting information for magazines, newspaper, radio and Internet. For the awards program, products are judged by three outside reviewers: a licensed childcare facility/school, a product expert and a family. For more information about the iParenting Media Awards and to view the complete list of award winners, visit: http://www.iparentingmediaawards.com/.

Released in February 2006, Inspiration 8's new and enhanced capabilities make it the essential learning tool to help students visualize, think, organize and learn. For more information about what's new in Inspiration 8, including the Starter screen, a keyword symbol search, more inspiring templates, enhanced drag-and-drop capabilities, Word Guide integrated dictionary and thesaurus, and access to Inspiration Web Resources, please visit: http://www.inspiration.com/productinfo/
inspiration/inspiration8/index.cfm.

About Inspiration Software
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc. develops and publishes innovative software tools that inspire learners of all ages to brainstorm, organize, plan and create. With more than 15 million users worldwide, the company's award-winning software is revolutionizing visual learning in education—inspiring students to develop strong thinking and organizational skills and improve their academic performance. Founded by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.

PORTLAND, OR—April 25, 2006
Inspiration Software®, Inc. recently received The National Parenting Center's 2006 Seal of Approval for its visual learning tool, Inspiration® 8. This marks the 5th version of Inspiration to receive the Seal of Approval. Released in February 2006, Inspiration 8 is the essential tool to visualize, think, organize and learn. For information about version 8's new and enhanced features, including the Starter screen, a keyword symbol search, more inspiring templates, enhanced drag-and-drop capabilities, Word Guide integrated dictionary and thesaurus, and access to Inspiration Web Resources, please visit http://www.inspiration.com/productinfo/
inspiration/inspiration8/index.cfm.

Testing for The National Parenting Center's Seal of Approval is a multi-step process conducted over an eight-week period. Staffed by volunteers, the testing facility of The National Parenting Center gives parents, children and educators the opportunity to examine a variety of submitted products. The testers are encouraged to play with, build, read about and judge by the reactions of the children, each product's quality. For more information about The National Parent Center Seal of Approval, visit http://www.tnpc.com.

About Inspiration Software
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc. develops and publishes innovative software tools that inspire learners of all ages to brainstorm, organize, plan and create. With more than 15 million users worldwide, the company's award-winning software is revolutionizing visual learning in education—inspiring students to develop strong thinking and organizational skills and improve their academic performance. Founded by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.
 

PORTLAND, OR—April/May 2006
Inspiration® software was honored to receive top pick for education software in Edutopia magazine's readers' survey, as published in the April/May 2006 issue. Developed and published by Inspiration Software®, Inspiration is a visual learning tool specifically targeted toward helping students in grades 6-12 plan, organize and research projects across the curriculum. Inspiration finished ahead of PowerPoint® in second place and Microsoft® Office in third, both of which are designed primarily for business applications.

Edutopia is a publication of the George Lucas Educational Foundation (GLEF), which was founded in 1991 as a nonprofit operating foundation to celebrate and encourage innovation in schools. GLEF's mission is to document, disseminate, and advocate for exemplary programs in K-12 public schools to help these practices spread nationwide. For more information, please see http://www.edutopia.org/.

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc. develops and publishes innovative software tools that inspire learners of all ages to brainstorm, organize, plan and create. With more than 15 million users worldwide, the company's award-winning software is revolutionizing visual learning in education—inspiring students to develop strong thinking and organizational skills and improve their academic performance. Founded by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.

PORTLAND, OR — March 24, 2006
Inspiration Software was honored with three 2006 Best Educational Software Awards (BESSIES) for its visual learning tools Kidspiration®, Inspiration® and Inspiration® for Palm OS®. ComputED Learning Center and the Educational Software Preview Service of the San Diego Center for Educational Technology present the annual BESSIE Awards to recognize innovative and content rich programs and provide parents and teachers with a guide to the best children's educational software currently available.

Inspiration 7.6, the company's flagship visual learning software for students grades six through adult, received the BESSIE Award in the multi-level "Thinking Skills" category. Kidspiration 2.1, the visual way to think, write and comprehend for students in kindergarten through fifth grade, was the winner in the "Thinking Skills" category for upper elementary. This is the ninth consecutive year that Inspiration has received this honor and the sixth year for Kidspiration. Inspiration for Palm OS was also a winner for the second year in a row, in the PDA category. For more information about the ComputED Learning Center and the BESSIE awards, visit: http://computedgazette.com/.

About Inspiration Software
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc. develops and publishes innovative software tools that inspire learners of all ages to brainstorm, organize, plan and create. With more than 15 million users worldwide, the company's award-winning software is revolutionizing visual learning in education—inspiring students to develop strong thinking and organizational skills and improve their academic performance. Founded by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.

PORTLAND, OR — Dec. 2, 2005
Inspiration Software®, Inc. is honored to receive two 2006 Teachers' Choice Awards for the Family, for Inspiration® 7.6 and Kidspiration® 2.1. The 3rd annual Teachers' Choice Awards for the Family are presented by Learning Magazine (http://www.theeducationcenter.com/), and the complete list of award recipients will be published in the April 2006 issue. This is the second year in a row that Kidspiration has been honored with this award.

Learning Magazine introduced the first Teachers' Choice Awards program in 1994. In 2004, it launched the Teachers' Choice Awards for the Family in order to meet the needs of companies whose educational products work in the home. Teachers from across the United States judged the entries and evaluated how effectively the products could be incorporated into the home environment. Each product was evaluated on educational value, originality and creativity, ease of use, safety and durability, and high-interest level and motivation for children.

Inspiration is the premier tool to help students grade 6 to adult develop ideas and organize thinking. Powered by the proven techniques of visual learning, Inspiration taps into students' creativity and learning strengths. Students develop essential learning strategies as they create graphic organizers to visually represent concepts and relationships. Inspiration's integrated diagramming and outlining environments work together to help students comprehend concepts and information. The results are clearer thinking, more creative projects, better organized writing and improved performance across all curriculum areas. Inspiration 7.6, released in January 2005, offers enhanced compatibility with new technologies being used in classrooms, including interactive whiteboards, Tablet PCs, and Palm Powered™ handhelds.

Kidspiration is the visual way to think, write and comprehend. Created for K-5 learners, Kidspiration provides an easy way to apply the proven principles of visual learning, improving achievement and standards-based skills across the curriculum. Students build graphic organizers by combining pictures, text and spoken words to represent thoughts and information. Younger learners develop early literacy skills, and more advanced students improve comprehension skills and organize their ideas for writing. Kidspiration 2.1, released in January 2005, offers enhanced compatibility with new technologies being used in classrooms, including interactive whiteboards, Tablet PCs, and Palm Powered™ handhelds.

About Inspiration Software
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc. develops and publishes innovative software tools that inspire learners of all ages to brainstorm, organize, plan and create. With more than 15 million users worldwide, the company's award-winning software is revolutionizing visual learning in education—inspiring students to develop strong thinking and organizational skills and improve their academic performance. Founded by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.

PORTLAND, OR—August 12, 2005
Inspiration Software®, Inc. today received two Education Software Review Awards (EDDIES) for Kidspiration® 2.1 and Inspiration® 7.6. Kidspiration 2.1 won in the Thinking Skills category for Upper Elementary, the fifth consecutive EDDIE award given to Kidspiration. Inspiration 7.6 was awarded in the Thinking Skills category for Middle School, marking the tenth consecutive EDDIE Award given to Inspiration.

The tenth annual EDDIE Awards are presented by ComputED Learning Center, San Diego's leading computer education resource. The awards recognize innovative and content-rich programs that provide teachers and parents with technology tools to help students achieve academic excellence. For more information about ComputED Learning Lab and the EDDIE Awards, visit www.computedgazette.com.

Released in January 2005, the updated versions Kidspiration 2.1 and Inspiration 7.6 offer enhanced compatibility with emerging classroom technologies, such as interactive whiteboards and Tablet PCs.

About Inspiration Software
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc. develops and publishes innovative software tools that inspire learners of all ages to brainstorm, organize, plan and create. With more than 15 million users worldwide, the company's award-winning software is revolutionizing visual learning in education—inspiring students to develop strong thinking and organizational skills and improve their academic performance. Founded by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.

PORTLAND, OR—August 8, 2005
Inspiration Software®, Inc. recently earned The National Parenting Center's 2005 Seal of Approval for its visual learning tools, Inspiration® 7.6, Kidspiration® 2.1, Inspiration® for Palm OS® and Inspiration® for Pocket PC.

This marks the 4th version of Inspiration, the premier tool to develop ideas and organize thinking, to receive the Seal of Approval. Kidspiration, the visual way to think, write and comprehend, has received the Seal of Approval on two prior occasions. Released in January 2005, updated versions Inspiration 7.6 and Kidspiration 2.1 offer enhanced compatibility with emerging classroom technologies, such as interactive whiteboards and Tablet PCs.

This is the first Seal of Approval for Inspiration Software's new handheld offerings, Inspiration for Palm OS, released in May 2004, and Inspiration for Pocket PC, released in June 2005. Inspiration for handhelds combines the learning benefits of Inspiration with the natural ease of handhelds, offering students and educators a familiar tool for gathering information and developing ideas.

Testing for The National Parenting Center's Seal of Approval is a multi-step process conducted over an eight-week period. Staffed by volunteers, the testing facility of The National Parenting Center gives parents, children and educators the opportunity to examine a variety of submitted products. The testers are encouraged to play with, build, read about and judge by the reactions of the children, each product's quality. For more information about The National Parent Center Seal of Approval, visit http://www.tnpc.com.

About Inspiration Software
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc. develops and publishes innovative software tools that inspire learners of all ages to brainstorm, organize, plan and create. With more than 15 million users worldwide, the company's award-winning software is revolutionizing visual learning in education—inspiring students to develop strong thinking and organizational skills and improve their academic performance. Founded by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.

PORTLAND, OR — May 31, 2005
Inspiration Software® received two 2005 Codie Awards from the Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) last week in Universal City, Calif. The company's flagship visual learning software, Inspiration® 7.5, was honored as the Best Education Technology Solution for Productivity/Creativity. Kidspiration® 2, visual learning software for kindergarten through fifth grade, won the Best Elementary Education Instructional Solution: Language Arts/Reading category. This is the fifth Codie Award won by Inspiration Software.

This year over 800 companies submitted more than 1,000 nominations — a record breaker for the Codie Awards, now in its 20th year. First round judging was completed by a broad panel of representatives from the industry trade press, mainstream technology writers and industry experts and analysts. Second round judging was based on votes from SIIA members. Member companies are allotted one vote per company in each Codie Award category.

"SIIA congratulates Inspiration Software, Inc. on its two 2005 Codie Awards wins in education technology categories," said Ken Wasch, president, SIIA.

As the premier tool to develop ideas and organize thinking, Inspiration 7.5 provides powerful support for critical thinking, comprehension and writing in all curriculum areas for students from grade 6 to adult. Kidspiration 2 offers students in grades K-5 the ability to build early literacy skills and understand new concepts by using graphic organizers to combine pictures, text and spoken words.

"At Inspiration Software, our commitment is to develop visual learning software tools that help students achieve at the highest levels," said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder, Inspiration Software. "It is wonderful to have the latest updates to our premier products, Inspiration and Kidspiration, once again honored by the software industry."

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc. develops and publishes innovative software tools that inspire learners of all ages to brainstorm, organize, plan and create. With more than 15 million users worldwide, the company's award-winning software is revolutionizing visual learning in education—inspiring students to develop strong thinking and organizational skills and improve their academic performance. Founded by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.

About the Software & Information Industry Association
The Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) is the principal trade association for the software and digital content industry. SIIA provides global services in government relations, business development, corporate education and intellectual property protection to the leading companies that are setting the pace for the digital age. Go to www.siia.net for further information.

PORTLAND, OR—April 14, 2005
Inspiration Software® recently received All Star Software awards for Kidspiration 2.1 and Inspiration 7.6 from Children's Technology Review. Recent updates to the popular visual learning products include new compatibility with emerging technologies, giving educators more choices in how they use graphic organizers to develop and organize thinking. Enhancements for Windows and Mac OS X include the ability to draw and write directly on interactive whiteboards and Tablet PCs as well as syncing to Inspiration® for Palm OS®.

Children's Technology Review awarded both Kidspiration 2.1 and Inspiration 7.6 with 4.9 out of 5 stars. Children's Technology Review (CTR) is a survey of interactive media products. The editors attempt to help parents, children's librarians and teachers leverage the power of technology to support the development of children ages birth to 16, by describing the products that are available from an educational perspective. For more information about Children's Technology Review, visit www.childrenssoftware.com.

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc. develops and publishes innovative software tools that inspire learners of all ages to brainstorm, organize, plan and create. With more than 15 million users worldwide, the company's award-winning software is revolutionizing visual learning in education—inspiring students to develop strong thinking and organizational skills and improve their academic performance. Founded by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.

PORTLAND, OR — May 4, 2005
Inspiration Software®, Inc. announced today that Kidspiration® 2.1 and Inspiration® 7.6 were honored as Excellent Products of 2005 by iParenting Media. iParenting Media's Award Program honors the best products in the children's media and juvenile products industries. Kidspiration and Inspiration were recognized in the Software category.

iParenting Media produces parenting information for magazines, newspaper, radio and Internet. For the awards program, products are judged by three outside reviewers: a licensed childcare facility/school, a product expert and a family. For more information about the iParenting Media Awards and to view the complete list of award winners, visit: http://www.iparentingmediaawards.com/.

Released in January 2005, Kidspiration 2.1 and Inspiration 7.6 extend proven visual learning benefits with new updates to support emerging classroom technologies, including compatibility with Promethean ACTIV board and SMART Board™ interactive whiteboards, Palm-Powered™ handhelds, Tablet PCs and Wacom® Tablets.

About Inspiration Software
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc. develops and publishes innovative software tools that inspire learners of all ages to brainstorm, organize, plan and create. With more than 15 million users worldwide, the company's award-winning software is revolutionizing visual learning in education—inspiring students to develop strong thinking and organizational skills and improve their academic performance. Founded by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.

PORTLAND, OR — March 22, 2005
Inspiration Software was honored with three 2005 Best Educational Software Awards (BESSIES) for its visual learning tools Kidspiration®, Inspiration® and Inspiration® for Palm OS®. ComputED Learning Center and the Educational Software Preview Service of the San Diego Center for Educational Technology present the annual BESSIE Awards to recognize innovative and content rich programs and provide parents and teachers with a guide to the best children's educational software currently available.

Inspiration 7.5, the company's flagship visual learning software for students grades six through adult, received the BESSIE Award in the "Thinking Skills" category for Middle School. Kidspiration 2, the visual way to think, write and comprehend for students in kindergarten through fifth grade, was the winner in the "Thinking Skills" category for Upper Elementary. This is the eighth consecutive year that Inspiration has received this honor and the fifth year for Kidspiration. Inspiration for Palm OS, a newcomer to the BESSIES this year, was the winner in the "Thinking Skills, Palm OS" category for High School. For more information about the ComputED Learning Center and the BESSIE awards, visit:http://computedgazette.com/.

About Inspiration Software
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc. develops and publishes innovative software tools that inspire learners of all ages to brainstorm, organize, plan and create. With more than 15 million users worldwide, the company's award-winning software is revolutionizing visual learning in education—inspiring students to develop strong thinking and organizational skills and improve their academic performance. Founded by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.

PORTLAND, OR—July 28, 2004
Inspiration Software®, Inc. today received three Education Software Review Awards (EDDIES) for Kidspiration® 2,Inspiration® and Inspiration® for Palm OS®. Kidspiration 2 won in the Thinking Skills category for Upper Elementary, the fourth consecutive award given to Kidspiration. Inspiration was awarded in the Thinking Skills category for Junior High School, marking the ninth consecutive EDDIE Award given to Inspiration. Recently introduced in May 2004, Inspiration for Palm OS received its first EDDIE award as the best Palm OS application.

The ninth annual EDDIE Awards are presented by ComputED Learning Center, San Diego's leading computer education resource. The awards recognize innovative and content-rich programs that provide teachers and parents with technology tools to help students achieve academic excellence. For more information about ComputED Learning Lab and the EDDIE Awards, visit www.computedgazette.com.

Kidspiration 2, released in January 2004, provides more visual ways to help K-5 students build emerging literacy skills. Inspiration, the premier tool for visual thinking and learning, is used by students grade 6 to adult to develop ideas and organize thinking. Created for grade 4 to adult, Inspiration for Palm OS provides handheld power to develop ideas and organize thinking.

About Inspiration Software
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc. develops and publishes innovative software tools that inspire learners of all ages to brainstorm, organize, plan and create. With more than 10 million users worldwide, the company's award-winning software is revolutionizing visual learning in education—inspiring students to develop strong thinking and organizational skills and improve their academic performance. Founded by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.

PORTLAND, OR — March 15, 2004
Inspiration Software was honored with 2004 Best Educational Software Awards (BESSIES) for its products, Inspiration and Kidspiration. ComputED Learning Center and the Educational Software Preview Service of the San Diego Center for Educational Technology present the annual BESSIE Awards to recognize innovative and content rich programs and provide parents and teachers with a guide to the best children's educational software currently available.

Inspiration 7.5, the company's flagship visual learning software for students grades six through adult, received the BESSIE Award in the "Thinking Skills" category for High School. Kidspiration, the visual way to think, write and comprehend for students in kindergarten through fifth grade, was the winner in the "Thinking Skills" category for Upper Elementary. This is the seventh consecutive year that Inspiration has received this honor and the fourth year for Kidspiration.

For more information about the ComputED Learning Center and the BESSIE awards, visit: http://computedgazette.com/

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc. develops and publishes innovative software tools that inspire learners of all ages to brainstorm, organize, plan and create. With more than 10 million users worldwide, the company's award-winning software is revolutionizing visual learning in education—inspiring students to develop strong thinking and organizational skills and improve their academic performance. Founded by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.
 

PORTLAND, OR — November 4, 2003
Inspiration Software, Inc. announced today that Inspiration 7.5 was honored with a 2003 iParenting Media Award during the 2003 Great Holiday Products Awards. iParenting's awards program honors the best products in the children's media and juvenile product marketplace. Inspiration, the premier tool to develop ideas and organize thinking for grade six to adult, was recognized in the Software category.

iParenting Media produces parenting information for magazines, newspaper, radio and Internet. For the awards program, products are judged by three outside reviewers: a licensed childcare facility/school, a product expert and a parent. For more information about the iParenting Media Awards, visit: http://www.iparentingmediaawards.com/

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc. develops and publishes innovative software tools that inspire learners of all ages to brainstorm, organize, plan and create. With more than 10 million users worldwide, the company's award-winning software is revolutionizing visual learning in education—inspiring students to develop strong thinking and organizational skills and improve their academic performance. Founded by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.

PORTLAND, OR — June 10, 2003
Inspiration 7, the newest version of Inspiration Software's flagship visual learning software for grade six through adult, recently was awarded the Association of Educational Publishers (AEP) 2003 Distinguished Achievement Award for Instructional Materials for Young Adults. The association announced the winners of the 40th annual awards recognizing the best in supplemental educational publishing last week at a gala event at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C.

"In this time of changing standards and curricula, supplemental educational publishers give parents and teachers options. Displaying the winner's seal from AEP’s Distinguished Achievement Awards signals that this product is an outstanding learning tool for the home or classroom," said Robert W. Harper, president, AEP Board of Directors.

This recognition for Inspiration Software comes less than a month after the company's two visual learning software products, Inspiration and Kidspiration®, both earned 2003 Codie Awards from the Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA). These awards showcase the software and digital content industry's finest products and services and honor excellence for corporate achievement and philanthropic efforts.

"We are very proud of the awards and recognition that Inspiration has earned in the education and technology community," said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder, Inspiration Software. "As an education company, it is particularly gratifying to receive the Distinguished Service Award from the national professional organization for educational publishers."

All Distinguished Service Award entries, received from companies and organizations nationwide, first go through a rigorous screening process. From these entries, the final judging panel may pick up to four finalists per category, but may choose less if warranted. Judging panels are drawn from a national pool of writing, publishing and design experts in print and technology; education editors; educators; and curriculum experts.

About the Association of Educational Publishers (AEP)
Since 1895, AEP – the national, nonprofit professional organization for educational publishers – has provided print and digital publishers with the resources needed to thrive in today’s changing education and publishing environment by tracking education, legislative and industry information and trends; creating networking opportunities; and fostering excellence in educational publishing through professional development and recognition programs.

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc. develops and publishes innovative software tools that inspire learners of all ages to brainstorm, organize, plan, and create. With more than 10 million users worldwide, the company's award-winning software is revolutionizing visual learning in education - inspiring students to develop strong thinking and organizational skills and improve their academic performance. Founded by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.
 

June 1, 2003 – PORTLAND, OR
Inspiration Software® today announced that Inspiration 7 was selected as a Districts' Choice Top 100 Products award winner by District Administration magazine. The Districts' Choice Awards seek to identify and honor the best new products for school administrators.

Judged by District Administration's editorial staff, advisory board, and comments from readers, the Top 100 list is comprised of products that enhance teaching and learning. Inspiration 7, the newest version of the premier tool to develop ideas and organize thinking for grade 6 to adult, was listed under Software. Read more about the Top 100 awards in the June 2003 issue of District Administration, found online at www.districtadministration.com.

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc. develops and publishes innovative software tools that inspire learners of all ages to brainstorm, organize, plan, and create. With more than 10 million users worldwide, the company's award-winning software is revolutionizing visual learning in education - inspiring students to develop strong thinking and organizational skills and improve their academic performance. Founded by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.

PORTLAND, OR — May 13, 2003
Inspiration Software received two 2003 Codie Awards from the Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) last week in San Francisco. The company's flagship visual learning software, Inspiration, was honored as the "Best Secondary Education Instructional Solution" for the second consecutive year. Kidspiration, visual learning software for kindergarten through fifth grade, won "Best Elementary Education Instructional Solution" honors.

"It is exciting to have both of our visual learning software products recognized by our peers in the software technology industry," said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder, Inspiration Software. "Our two 2003 Codie Awards are a tribute to Inspiration Software's entire team of employees who are dedicated to developing the highest quality learning tools to support improved achievement in our schools."

Inspiration Software joined 39 other technology industry leaders in receiving a 2003 Codie Award. For 18 years, these awards have showcased the software and digital content industry's finest products and services and honored excellence for corporate achievement and philanthropic efforts.

SIIA President Ken Wasch said, "SIIA congratulates Inspiration Software on its wins in two 2003 Codie Awards education categories with first-rate competition. These awards recognize the strength of Inspiration Software’s products in the education market."

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc. develops and publishes innovative software tools that inspire learners of all ages to brainstorm, organize, plan, and create. With more than 10 million users worldwide, the company's award-winning software is revolutionizing visual learning in education—inspiring students to develop strong thinking and organizational skills and improve their academic performance. Founded by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.

About the Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA)
The Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) is the principal trade association for the software and digital content industry. SIIA provides global services in government relations, business development, corporate education and intellectual property protection to more than 650 leading software and information companies. For further information, visit http://www.siia.net.
 

PORTLAND, OR — May 6, 2003
Inspiration Software® today announced that its flagship visual learning product, Inspiration® 7, is a finalist in the Association of Educational Publisher’s 2003 Distinguished Achievement Awards program. Inspiration 7, the newest version of the premier tool to develop ideas and organize thinking, is one of three finalists in the Instructional Materials category of software for young adults.

The 2003 Distinguished Achievement Awards showcase the best products in educational publishing, recognizing learning resources that exhibit superior content and educational value. Judges rate products according to criteria including clear teacher instructions and learning objectives, educational value, originality and creativity, and ease of use and navigation. The awards will be presented on Wednesday, June 4, at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C.

About the Association of Educational Publishers
The Association of Educational Publishers is a national, nonprofit professional organization that provides educational publishers with resources for the changing education and publishing environment.

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc. develops and publishes innovative software tools that inspire learners of all ages to brainstorm, organize, plan, and create. With more than 10 million users worldwide, the company's award-winning software is revolutionizing visual learning in education - inspiring students to develop strong thinking and organizational skills and improve their academic performance. Founded by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.

PORTLAND, OR — April 25, 2003
Inspiration Software® was recently honored by the inclusion of Inspiration® 7 in the Media & Methods' 2003 Awards Portfolio. The Awards Portfolio recognizes instructional technology products and services that contribute to excellence in K-12 schools. Inspiration 7, the newest version of the premier tool to develop ideas and organize thinking for grades six to adult, was one of the highest rated products judged according to criteria including content, educational objectives, user friendliness, and effectiveness.

The announcement of the 2003 Awards Portfolio Winners appears in the May/June 2003 issue of Media & Methods, a technology and education magazine focusing on practical ways technology can be used for teaching and learning. To learn more about Media & Methods magazine visit: http://www.media-methods.com

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc. develops and publishes innovative software tools that inspire learners of all ages to brainstorm, organize, plan, and create. With more than 10 million users worldwide, the company's award-winning software is revolutionizing visual learning in education - inspiring students to develop strong thinking and organizational skills and improve their academic performance. Founded by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.

PORTLAND, OR — March 25, 2003
Inspiration Software has received 2002-2003 Best Educational Software Awards (BESSIES) for its products, Inspiration and Kidspiration. ComputED Learning Center and the Educational Software Preview Service of the San Diego Center for Educational Technology present the annual BESSIE Awards to recognize innovative and content rich programs and provide parents and teachers with a guide to the best children's educational software currently available.

Inspiration 7, the newest version of the company's flagship visual learning software for students grades six through adult, received the BESSIE Award in the "Learning Tools" category for High Schools. Kidspiration, designed to help students in kindergarten through fifth build strong thinking skills with visual learning, was the winner in the "Thinking Skills" category for Upper Elementary Schools. This is the sixth consecutive year that Inspiration has received this honor and the third year for Kidspiration.

"Inspiration Software is proud to have its products recognized again this year by the BESSIE Awards," said Mona Westhaver, company president and co-founder. "We join an impressive group of our colleagues in the education software industry in receiving this award."

Find out more about the BESSIES and its sponsors at http://computedgazette.com/page3.html

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc. develops and publishes innovative software tools that inspire learners of all ages to brainstorm, organize, plan, and create. With more than 10 million users worldwide, the company's award-winning software is revolutionizing visual learning in education - inspiring students to develop strong thinking and organizational skills and improve their academic performance. Founded by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.

Portland, OR - January 14, 2003
Inspiration Software today announced that its visual learning software products, Inspiration and Kidspiration, are finalists for the Software & Information Industry Association's (SIIA) 18th Annual Codie Awards. Inspiration 7 is a finalist for Best Secondary Education Instructional Solution and Best K-16 Educational Total Comprehensive Solution. Kidspiration, the company's visual learning software for kindergarten through fifth grade, is a finalist for Best Elementary Education Instructional Solution.

The 2003 Codie Awards showcase the software and digital content industry's finest products and services and honor excellence for corporate achievement and philanthropic efforts. The 185 Codie Award finalists represent all types of companies, from emerging start-ups to traditional industry powerhouses. The finalists, as a whole, comprise 40 product and service categories in the consumer and corporate markets. In 2002, Inspiration 6 received the Codie Award for Best Secondary Education Instructional Solution and Kidspiration was a finalist in the Best Elementary Educational Instructional Solution category.

"More than 10 million students and teachers worldwide recognize the power of Inspiration Software's visual learning software as important tools for building critical thinking skills," said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder, Inspiration Software. "It is gratifying to have our products continue to be recognized by our peers in the software industry as well."

The Codie Awards is the only peer recognition program in the software and information industry, providing a unique opportunity for companies to compete for the praise of their competitors. The 2003 Codie Awards will be presented at a black-tie gala on Tuesday, May 6, during the SIIA Conference at the Palace Hotel in San Francisco.

"The digital code and content industry is as innovative and vibrant as ever. For a company to make the cut as a finalist is a terrific achievement. Simply put, each finalist is a leader in its field. We are extremely proud to recognize the creativity and hard work that have brought them to this point," said Ken Wasch, SIIA president.

About the Software & Information Industry Association
The Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) is the principal trade association for the software and digital content industry. SIIA provides global services in government relations, business development, corporate education and intellectual property protection to more than 800 leading software and information companies. For further information, http://www.siia.net.

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc. develops and publishes innovative software tools that inspire learners of all ages to brainstorm, organize, plan and create. With more than 10 million users worldwide, the company's award-winning software is revolutionizing visual learning in education - inspiring students to develop strong thinking and organizational skills and improve their academic performance. Founded by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.

PORTLAND, OR - November 26, 2002
Inspiration Software®, Inc. today announced that Parent's Guide to Children's Media has recognized Inspiration 6.0® as a winner of its 2002 Children's Media Award. Inspiration, the company's flagship product, was awarded as a Classic in the Computer Software category.

Inspiration helps students grade 6 to adult develop ideas, organize thinking, build new knowledge, and analyze complex topics. Educators use Inspiration across the curriculum for brainstorming, webbing, diagramming, planning, critical thinking, concept mapping, organizing, outlining, and more. Released in September 2002, Inspiration 7 provides even more powerful support for critical thinking, comprehension, and writing in all curriculum areas.

The 2002 Children's Media Awards are sponsored by Parent's Guide to Children's Media, Inc., a non-profit corporation that locates, reviews, and honors outstanding materials for children and teens.

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2002, Inspiration Software, Inc. is recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning. The company develops and publishes innovative software tools that inspire learners of all ages to brainstorm, organize, plan, and create. With more than 10 million users worldwide, the company's award-winning software is revolutionizing visual learning in education - inspiring students to develop strong thinking and organizational skills and improve their academic performance. Founded by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.

PORTLAND, OR-November 7, 2002
Inspiration Software® recently received an All Star Software award for Inspiration® 7, the newest version of its flagship product, from Children's Software Revue. Inspiration 7, released in September 2002, is used by teachers and students grade 6 to adult to develop ideas and organize thinking.

The newest version of Inspiration is featured on the magazine's School All Star List, along with Kidspiration®, the company's software for helping students in grades K-5 build strong thinking skills with visual learning.

A non-profit company, Children's Software Revue is dedicated to providing timely reviews of commercial interactive products that help adults leverage the power of technology to support the development of children ages birth to 16.

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2002, Inspiration Software, Inc. is recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning. The company develops and publishes innovative software tools that inspire learners of all ages to brainstorm, organize, plan, and create. With more than 10 million users worldwide, the company's award-winning software is revolutionizing visual learning in education - inspiring students to develop strong thinking and organizational skills and improve their academic performance. Founded by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.

PORTLAND, OR–August 6, 2002
Inspiration Software, Inc. today received dual Education Software Review Awards (EDDIES) for Kidspiration® and Inspiration®. Inspiration was awarded in the Learning Tools category for High School, marking the seventh consecutive EDDIE Award given to Inspiration. Kidspiration won in the Thinking Skills category for Upper Elementary, the second consecutive award given to Kidspiration.

The seventh annual EDDIE Awards are presented by ComputED Learning Center, San Diego's leading computer education resource. The awards aim to recognize innovative and content-rich programs that augment classroom curriculum and improve teacher productivity. For more information about ComputED Learning Lab and the EDDIE Awards, visit www.computedgazette.com.

Inspiration, the premier tool for visual thinking and learning, is used by students grade 6 to adult to develop ideas and organize thinking. Kidspiration helps K-5 students build strong thinking skills with visual learning.

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Proudly celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, Inspiration Software, Inc. develops, publishes, and distributes premier visual thinking and learning tools for the K-12 education market. The company's award-winning products are used around the world and in over 60% of school districts in the United States. Founded in 1982 by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.

PORTLAND, OR - June, 2002
Inspiration® and Kidspiration® have been named to Dr. Toy's Best Children's Vacation Products list for 2002. This marks the fourth consecutive year Inspiration Software's flagship product, Inspiration, has been chosen by Dr. Toy, and the second consecutive year Kidspiration has been chosen.

Dr. Toy's Best Children's Vacation Products are selected in cooperation with the Institute for Childhood Resources. Established in 1975, the company provides parents and professionals with the latest information on toys, software, games, tapes, and other children's products. Dr. Toy's review of Inspiration and Kidspiration can be found online in Dr. Toy's Guide at www.drtoy.com.

Inspiration, the premier tool for visual thinking and learning, is used by students in grades 6-12 to develop ideas and organize thinking. Kidspiration helps K-5 students build strong thinking skills with visual learning.

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Inspiration Software, Inc. develops, publishes, and distributes premier visual thinking and learning tools for the K-12 education market. The company's award-winning products are used around the world and in over 60% of school districts in the United States. Founded in 1982 by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think. For additional information call 503-297-3004.

Portland, OR - April 18, 2002
Inspiration Software®, Inc. has been honored with dual Best Educational Software Awards (BESSIES) for Inspiration and Kidspiration. Inspiration, used by students in grades 6-12 to develop ideas and organize thinking, was awarded in the Learning Tools category for High School. This year's marks Inspiration's fifth consecutive BESSIE Award. Kidspiration, designed to help K-5 students build strong thinking skills with visual learning, won in the Thinking Skills category for Upper Elementary. This marks the second consecutive BESSIE Award for Kidspiration.

ComputED Learning Center, San Diego's leading computer education resource, and the Educational Software Preview Service of the San Diego Center for Educational Technology (a nonprofit organization) annually present the BESSIE Awards to recognize innovative and content rich programs and provide parents and teachers with a guide to the best children's educational software currently available. For more information about ComputED Learning Center and the BESSIE Awards, visit www.computedgazette.com.

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Inspiration Software, Inc. develops, publishes, and distributes premier visual thinking and learning tools for the K-12 education market. The company's award-winning products are used around the world and in over 60% of school districts in the United States. Founded in 1982 by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think. For additional information, call 503-297-3004.

Portland, OR - April 18, 2002
Inspiration Software®, Inc. is pleased to announce that Inspiration, the premier tool to develop ideas and organize thinking, won the 2002 Codie Award for Best Secondary Education Instructional Solution from the Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA). Inspiration is used across the curriculum by students in the United States and around the world.

Awarded at a gala event during the SIIA 2002 Annual Conference in San Diego, the Codie Awards honor the best products and services the digital economy has to offer—featuring the software, digital content and online services that have transformed computing and the use of the Internet at home, work and school. The Codie Award for Best Secondary Education Instructional Solution honors the best school-based education technology solution for curriculum and content for students in grades 7-16.

Ken Wasch, president of SIIA, said, "SIIA congratulates Inspiration Software on their win in a 2002 Codie Awards education category with first-rate competition. This award recognizes the quality of their education service."

Donald Helfgott, Inspiration chief executive officer, accepted the award at Monday night’s gala. "Inspiration has long been recognized by educators across the country and around the world as a key software tool for improving student learning in measurable ways," said Helfgott. "We are honored to also be recognized by the software and information industry as one of the best products in education today."

"This 17th Annual Codie Awards carries on the tradition of celebrating the best of the best in the software and information industry," said Wasch. "As the only peer-reviewed awards program of its kind in this constantly evolving field, winning a Codie Award is indeed a high honor."

About SIIA
The Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) is the principal trade association for the software and digital content industry. SIIA provides global services in government relations, business development, corporate education, and intellectual property protection to more than 800 leading software and information companies. For further information, visit www.siia.net.

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Inspiration Software, Inc. develops, publishes, and distributes premier visual thinking and learning tools for the K-12 education market. The company's award-winning products are used around the world and in over 60% of school districts in the United States. Founded in 1982 by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think. For additional information, call 503-297-3004.

PORTLAND, OR – December 18, 2001
Inspiration Software®, Inc. today announced that its visual learning tools Kidspiration and Inspiration have both been named as finalists in the 2002 Codie Awards sponsored annually by the Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA.) In its 17th year, the SIIA Codie Awards honor the software and information industry's finest products and services in four areas— eBusiness, Content, Education and Industry-wide.

Selected from more than 700 nominees, Kidspiration was named a finalist in the Best Elementary Education Instructional Solution category, while Inspiration was named a finalist in the Best Secondary Education Instructional Solution category.

"Kidspiration and Inspiration have been recognized by educators across the country as key software tools to assist students in learning. We are honored to also be recognized by the software and information industry as one of the best designed, most useful products for students by a panel of software industry experts," said Inspiration Software president Mona Westhaver.

About Inspiration Software Products
As the leading developer of visual thinking tools, Inspiration Software products are used across the curriculum for a variety of visual learning techniques, including concept mapping, webbing, and brainstorming. In an independent study, Scholastic's market research firm, Quality Education Data (QED), found that Inspiration Software products are currently in use by over sixty percent of U.S. school districts.

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Inspiration Software, Inc. is a privately held corporation that develops, publishes, and distributes premier visual thinking and learning tools for the K-12 education market. Founded in 1982 by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think. For additional information about the company, please call 503/297-3004.

July 20, 2001 - PORTLAND, OR -
Inspiration Software®, Inc. was honored with dual Education Software Awards (EDDIES) for Kidspiration® and Inspiration®. Kidspiration, visual learning software designed for K-3 students, won in the Teacher Tools category for Early Elementary Education. Inspiration was awarded in the Teacher Tools category for Secondary Education, marking the sixth consecutive EDDIE Award given to Inspiration.

San Diego's ComputED Learning Lab annually presents the EDDIE Awards, seeking to recognize innovative and content rich programs that augment classroom curriculum and improve teacher productivity. For more information about ComputED Learning Lab and the EDDIE Awards, visit www.computedgazette.com.

Inspiration, the flagship product from Inspiration Software, is used by grades 4-12 across the curriculum for a variety of visual learning techniques, including concept mapping, webbing, brainstorming, and more.

Inspiration Software released Kidspiration in January of 2001. Designed specifically for grades K-3, Kidspiration helps students build strong thinking skills with visual learning.

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Inspiration Software, Inc. is a privately held corporation that develops, publishes, and distributes premier visual thinking and learning tools for the K-12 education market. Founded in 1982 by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.

March 22, 2001-
PORTLAND, OR
Inspiration Software®, Inc has received dual Best Children's Education Software (BESSIE) Awards for Kidspiration® and Inspiration® 6. Kidspiration, a visual learning tool designed for K-3 students, won in the Teacher Tools category for Upper Elementary. Inspiration was awarded in the Teacher Tools category for Middle School/Jr. High, the 4th consecutive BESSIE Award given to Inspiration.

The BESSIE Awards, given annually by San Diego's ComputED Learning Lab, seek to recognize innovative and content-rich programs which are appropriate for family purchase. For more information about ComputED Learning Lab and the BESSIE Awards, visit www.computedgazette.com.

Inspiration Software's flagship product, Inspiration, is used by grades 4-12 across the curriculum for a variety of visual learning techniques, including concept mapping, webbing, brainstorming, and more.

Inspiration Software released Kidspiration in January of 2001. Designed specifically for grades K-3, Kidspiration helps students build strong thinking skills with visual learning.

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Inspiration Software, Inc. is a privately held corporation that develops, publishes, and distributes premier visual thinking and learning tools for the K-12 education market. Founded in 1982 by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.

November 8, 2000 —
PORTLAND, OR
Inspiration Software®, Inc. received the 2001 GoldMaster Award for Inspiration® 6 from The Book Report and Library Talk. Inspiration 6, the premier tool to develop ideas and organize thinking, was pronounced the "best of the best" in the productivity category.

Linworth Publishing's The Book Report and Library Talk selected Inspiration 6 from among the educational technology products that received a "highly recommended" rating during 2000's product reviews. Linworth Publishing reviewers, practicing K-12 educators, evaluated Inspiration 6 based on their own classroom experience.

The Book Report and Library Talk magazines are published bi-monthly for secondary and elementary school library media and technology specialists.

Currently in use by over 1 million students world wide, Inspiration is used across the curriculum for a variety of visual learning techniques, including concept mapping, webbing, brainstorming, and more.

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Inspiration Software, Inc. is a privately held corporation that develops, publishes, and distributes premier visual thinking and learning tools for the K-12 education market. Founded in 1982 by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.
 

November 8, 2000—
PORTLAND, OR
Parent's Guide recognizes Inspiration Software®, Inc. as Inspiration® 6 wins the Children's Media Award for the third consecutive year. Inspiration, the premier tool for visual thinking and learning, is used across the curriculum by students, educators, and administrators for a wide spectrum of visual learning activities including concept mapping, webbing, brainstorming and more.

The 2000 Children's Media awards are sponsored by Parent's Guide to Children's Media, Inc., a non-profit corporation committed to the enhancement of the quality and effectiveness of children's teaching media. The awards honors materials children can both enjoy and learn from. Inspiration 6 was awarded by Parent's Guide to Children's Media for outstanding achievement in computer programs.

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Inspiration Software, Inc. is a privately held corporation that develops, publishes, and distributes premier visual thinking and learning tools for the K-12 education market. Founded in 1982 by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.
 

November 8, 2000 —
PORTLAND, OR
Inspiration® 6 has been named to Dr. Toy's 100 Best Children's Products and Ten Best Software/CD-Rom/High Tech Products for 2000. This marks the second consecutive year Inspiration Software®, Inc.'s flagship product, Inspiration, has been chosen by Dr. Toy.

Dr. Toy's 100 Best Children's Products are selected in cooperation with the Institute for Childhood Resources. Established in 1975, the company provides parents and professionals with the latest information on toys, software, games, tapes, and other children1s products. Dr. Toy's review of Inspiration 6 can be found online in Dr. Toy's Guide at www.drtoy.com.

Inspiration, the premier tool for visual thinking and learning, is used across the curriculum by students, educators, and administrators for a wide spectrum of visual learning activities including concept mapping, webbing, brainstorming and more.

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Inspiration Software, Inc. is a privately held corporation that develops, publishes, and distributes premier visual thinking and learning tools for the K-12 education market. Founded in 1982 by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.

October 31, 2000 —
PORTLAND, OR
Inspiration Software®, Inc. was recognized by Quality Education Data (QED) with a first place Technology Leadership Award for Inspiration®, the premier tool to develop ideas and organize thinking.

The Technology Leadership Awards are determined by the results of QED's annual technology survey covering buying patterns of public schools and districts throughout the United States. A subsidiary of Scholastic, Inc., QED is the country's leading education market research and database organization.

Inspiration was awarded first place for Intent to Purchase in the Productivity Software category. QED's research indicated that more public schools and districts intend to buy Inspiration than any other software in the productivity category. Currently in use by over 1 million students world wide, Inspiration is used across the curriculum for a variety of visual learning techniques, including concept mapping, webbing, brainstorming, and more.

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Inspiration Software, Inc. is a privately held corporation that develops, publishes, and distributes premier visual thinking and learning tools for the K-12 education market. Founded in 1982 by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.

September 14, 2000 —
PORTLAND, OR
Inspiration Software®, Inc. announced today that Inspiration® 6 has won an Education Software Review Award (EDDIE) from Southern California's ComputED Learning Lab. Inspiration, the premier tool to develop ideas and organize thinking, is used across the curriculum for a variety of visual learning techniques, including concept mapping, webbing, brainstorming, and more.

This year, Inspiration 6 received honors in the Post-Secondary: Teacher Tools category.

The annual EDDIE awards are awarded by Southern California's ComputED Learning Lab, the editors of the ComputED Gazette. The group is committed to bringing to the public's attention the very best in educational software titles. The criteria used for the awards include the following: ease of use and installation, curriculum inclusion, content quality, professionalism, and design.

To learn more about the ComputED Learning Lab or to read more about the 2000 EDDIE awards, visit www.computedgazette.com.

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Inspiration Software, Inc. is a privately held corporation that develops, publishes, and distributes premier visual thinking and learning tools for the K-12 education market. Founded in 1982 by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.

August 31, 2000 —
PORTLAND, OR
Inspiration Software®, Inc. was honored by The National Parenting Center when Inspiration® 6 was awarded a Seal of Approval for Computer Software for the Fall 2000 testing period. Inspiration, the premier tool to develop ideas and organize thinking, is used across the curriculum for a variety of visual learning techniques, including concept mapping, webbing, brainstorming, and more.

"Inspiration provides a tool that allows you to visualize the process of thinking through a concept, seeing a project to completion, gathering input and so much more," wrote the reviewers about Inspiration. "This software is designed to help children and adults get a handle on their thoughts and ideas."

The National Parenting Center (TNPC) was founded in July of 1989 with the goal of helping create better informed parents and has become one of America's foremost parenting information services. One of the services TNPC provides is a review of the finest products and services available for children and their parents, including books, toys, software, and videos.

The National Parenting Center's Seal of Approval program is an independent testing procedure which judges a variety of products marketed to the parent/child consumer market. Staffed by volunteers, the testing facility of The National Parenting Center gives parents, children, and educators the opportunity to examine a variety of submitted products. Each product is evaluated for its level of desirability, interactive stimulation, and other ingredients essential in the make-up of a quality product.

For more information about TNPC, the Seal of Approval, and the review of Inspiration, visit The National Parenting Center's web site at www.tnpc.com.

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Inspiration Software, Inc. is a privately held corporation that develops, publishes, and distributes premier visual thinking and learning tools for the K-12 education market. Founded in 1982 by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to support improvements in education and make a positive difference in students' lives by providing software tools that help students learn to think.
 

June 2, 2000 —
PORTLAND, OR
Inspiration®, the visual thinking and learning tool published by Inspiration Software®, Inc., has been awarded Silver Honors in the Parents' Choice annual review of children's media. Inspiration is a leading software tool used in K-12 education in the United States and internationally.

Founded in 1978, Parents' Choice Foundation is the nation's oldest not-for-profit evaluator of children's books, videos, toys, audios, computer software, television, and magazines. The Foundation's mission is to provide parents with information to participate wisely in their children's learning.

The reviewer of Inspiration noted that, "By encouraging children to gather information, sort it, analyze it and apply it, this show-me program helps them develop ideas and organize their thoughts right before their eyes when tackling reports, research or just brainstorming."

Inspiration, Inspiration Software's award-winning flagship product, is used across the curriculum by students, educators, and administrators for a wide spectrum of visual learning activities including concept mapping, webbing, and the use of graphical organizers; planning and organizing multimedia projects and administrative tasks; brainstorming; and pre-writing.

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Inspiration Software, Inc. is a privately held corporation that develops, publishes, and distributes premier visual thinking and learning tools for the K-12 education market. Founded in 1982 by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, the company's mission is to provide, with a sense of integrity and fun, innovative, quality products and services for the education market.