Both of these companies are owned by the same parent company, Ingram Digital (*Correction* We have been informed that CourseSmart is still privately owned and is not owned by Ingram Digital). However, their approach to eBooks is very different. As a rule of thumb, VitalSource eBooks have a perpetual license, limited to 2 computers, and 2 mobile devices (through an application or supported browser). The primary mode of access for them is through a download, and accessing them from the device's storage. The means of limiting the eBook to a set number of devices is by using a license file that syncs with the VitalSource servers, and VitalSource will at times allow exceptions to this rule.
As such, VitalSource eBooks lend themselves well to students needing long term offline access to their materials. VitalSource also utilizes a proprietary reader program, which has font size control and read aloud features for users with impairments. The downside is that VitalSource eBooks aren't the cheapest around, but they are still cheaper than buying a print book, in almost every situation. In addition to this, you can print out as much of most VitalSource eBooks as you want. Be sure to check your individual book's DRM prior to purchase, though!
CourseSmart's eBooks are “rented” to users. The most common duration for this is a 180 day period, though some books have a 360 day, or even 720 day license. During this time frame, they may be accessed through CourseSmart's website, or “checked out” in an offline HTML5 format, on supported browsers. CourseSmart eBooks are well suited for students who don't wish to purchase a hard copy of a textbook, and don't want to worry about the textbook being bought back at the end of their term. CourseSmart advertises that their eBooks are as much as 60% cheaper than buying the same physical book. As always, check the DRM before making a purchase!
What do you think? Have you used either of these types of eBooks before? What do you like to see in an eBook, and how do you think these eBooks either meet your needs or fall short and could be fixed? Let us know on the Decrypted Tech forum!
*Updated 10-17-2012 @ 09:41 EST to correct information about CourseSmart ownership
