Macromedia, Inc. announced the Macromedia Flash MX Data Connection Kit, which provides pre-built connections to a range of data sources to jumpstart development of data-aware rich Internet applications. The kit includes Macromedia Firefly Components acquired from CyberSage Software, as well as a developer edition of Macromedia Flash Remoting MX. Macromedia Firefly Components provide a framework for accessing, displaying, and updating data within Macromedia Flash applications. For rapid data access, the Firefly component architecture includes specialized connectors and resolvers that integrate with multiple data sources including XML, Microsoft SQL Server, and Macromedia Flash Remoting. For consistent data display, the components include common visual building blocks that separate presentation from application logic. For simplified data updates, shadowing technology used by the components enables efficient saving of information to original data sources. The developer edition of Macromedia Flash Remoting MX can be used with Macromedia Firefly Components to access ColdFusion, Microsoft .NET, Java, and SOAP-based web services. The Macromedia Flash MX Data Connection Kit is priced at $299 for commercial users and $199 for the education channel. The kit will be available for purchase next week from the Macromedia Online Store. Macromedia DevNet Professional members will be able to download the kit next week as part of their subscription. www.macromedia.com/go/dck/