Matching needs - application service providing for asynchronous learning networks

Universities have severe difficulties in using e-learning applications successfully due to organizational problems to provide them. Providing a Web-based learning environment is an enormous effort not only from the didactical and organizational perspective, but also from an administrative and technical point of view. In this paper we critically review the steps taken for making a Web-based learning platform available to a broad public by developing a model for application service providing. ASP in the university context is a different business than ASP between companies. A much more flexible relation between service provider and consumer needs to be established. We outline the necessary roles involved and tasks observed. As a result the paper proposes a process that focuses on organizational, technical and financial conditions, which must be investigated when undertaking a similar enterprise.