What is iSpring Pro?
iSpring Pro is a PowerPoint Add-in that adds a tab and ribbon to the PowerPoint menu from which you can utilise a range of functions to enhance your presentation and publish it to a format optimised for viewing online. From the iSpring ribbon you can add voice or video narration to your PowerPoint slides, easily insert YouTube videos, Web objects (e.g. web pages and interactive learning objects) and Flash movies into to your slides. You can then publish your slides and narration to a Web and mobile friendly online presentation.
Learn more about these iSpring Pro functions
How do I get iSpring Pro?
You can order a copy by filling out the iSpring Pro request form on the UniSA website. You can get there by using this shortened URL (you'll be prompted to login with your UniSA username and password).
Do I have to install it myself?
No. The request form gives the option of a self-install or having it installed by IT staff (not Corey).
Do I have to pay for it?
No. A fixed number of licenses have already been purchased by the University. It won't cost you or the School anything.
If I already have an earlier version, why should I upgrade?
You don't have to, but if you do you can take advantage of some of the new features in version 7, such as being able to create presentations that can be viewed on iPads.
How do I upgrade to version 7?
To upgrade, just request a new license.
Will I need a microphone?
Yes, if you want to record voice narration on your slides. Alternatively, you could buy a quality USB desktop microphone, however, a headset allows you to move around and keeps the microphone at the right distance from your mouth. A headset can also be used for other things too, such as Virtual Classroom and Skype.
What sort of headset should I buy?
You should invest in a good quality headset with a USB connection - the cheaper ones tend to have poor quality recording capabilities - you get what you pay for! Spending about $40-50 will get you a reasonable set. Logitech, Plantronics and Sennheiser are all good brands to look for. You can buy them from many places, including most department stores, Dick Smith, OfficeWorks and JB HiFi.
Look for a headset with a noise cancelling microphone - this will help block out background noise such as airconditioners and noisy lights that can add an annoying hum to your recording. Some examples include the Logitech H330 (RRP $49.95), Sennheiser PC 8 (RRP $50), or Plantronics Audio 628 (RRP $49).
Will I need a webcam?
Only if you want to record video of yourself giving the narration alongside your slides. While video can add a greater element of personalisation, it does increase the viewer's bandwidth requirements which potentially can cause lag in the presentation playback, so it's not really recommended unless you have good reason for including the video.
To add personalisation to your presentation, you can instead include an image of yourself along with your name and contact details in the presentation player. See the tutorial "Presenters" for more on that.