Howard,
I agree with your point about what would happen in the absence of a Course Design Specification document but I am wondering if that could be a benefit rather than a downfall. I suppose it would depend on the experience of the vendor.
You mention that the CDS document helps speed up the process. Do you think that, perhaps, developing a prototype based on some basic information and then tweeking that prototype may be a faster way to develop your course? I am interested in your thoughts.
Thanks,
Jane