Inspiration Software's Visual Learning Software Products Honored as Finalists in Software & Information Industry's 2005 Codie Awards

PORTLAND, OR — Feb. 9, 2005
Inspiration Software® today announced that each of its three visual learning software products was named a finalist in the Software & Information Industry's (SIIA) 20th Annual Codie Awards. SIIA honored Inspiration® 7.5 in the Best Education Technology Solution for Productivity/Creativity category. As Best Handheld Education Solution, SIIA recognized Inspiration® for Palm OS® as a finalist, and Kidspiration® 2 was named in the Best Elementary Education Instructional Solution: Language Arts/Reading category.

Codie Awards judges this year selected finalists from more than 1,000 nominations. Since 1986, the Codie Awards have recognized vision in software, education technology and digital content honoring the industry’s finest products and services and excellence for corporate achievement and philanthropic efforts.

"The 20th annual Codie Awards continue the tradition of honoring the best of the software, content and education technology industries," said Ken Wasch, president, SIIA. "When one considers the number of outstanding companies that competed this year, being named a Codie Awards finalist is a significant achievement."

As the premier tool to develop ideas and organize thinking, Inspiration provides powerful support for critical thinking, comprehension and writing in all curriculum areas for students from grade 6 to adult. With Inspiration for Palm OS, launched just last June, the learning benefits of Inspiration combine with the natural ease of handhelds. Kidspiration 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, we are committed to ensuring that students have access to visual learning software tools across the curriculum using the wide spectrum of technology being used in today’s schools," said Mona Westhaver, president and co-founder, Inspiration Software. "We are proud that the software industry is recognizing our contributions to the education community."

As the only peer-recognition awards program of its kind in the industry, SIIA's Codie Awards provide a unique opportunity for companies to earn the praise of their competitors. On May 25, 2005, the 2005 Codie Awards will be presented at a black-tie gala at Universal Studio’s Globe Theater in Universal City, Calif.

About the Software & Information Industry Association
The Software & Information Industry Association 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.

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.