In order to accommodate the rise in online classes, colleges and universities may be forced to increase spending on technical infrastructures of online portals and training to provide effective online programs.

Some people suggest that the rise in demand for online classes is due to gas prices, while others say colleges and universities are simply offering more classes online. Nevertheless, online classes in colleges and universities have increased and will continue to grow. A recent article states that Hawaii Pacific University has seen a 9.6 percent increase in enrollment in online classes over last fall. The Chronicle of Higher Education states Tennessee Board of Regents reported that summer enrollment in online courses was up 29 percent this summer over last year. At Brevard Community College, in Cocoa, Fla., summer enrollment in online courses was up nearly 25 percent.

While debates continue regarding why enrollment in online classes has risen, the fact remains that college and universities must accommodate the growth. Vendors should anticipate requirements for implementation and maintenance of technical infrastructures of online portals at institutes of higher learning. Vendors should also monitor any savings schools experience as a result of online classes. If schools begin to see significant financial benefits from online classes the vendors should expect a major rise in online classes.