CMS/eCommerce/Courseware Consultation

This listing is for expert consultation, though there is a possibility for actual development work as the project proceeds. My client has a website that needs to be redesigned and redeveloped from the ground up. It is built on an outdated Content Management System -- an old version of a package by BVSoftware that has been customized and is not upgradeable. Additionally, we are all unhappy with many aspects of the current CMS. They sell training packages, some are hardcopy books that can be ordered through their site, others are online training courses. They have a database of existing users that log in to the various courses. Most of the online courses are flash-based slide shows with only basic Q & A interactivity. All of the data they have acquired in their current database(s), including product data, customer and user data will all have to be migrated to the new site. Our first need is to explore options for high level Content Management Systems, whether open-source or proprietary, that can handle the diverse functions of this site AND be more design flexible and scalable than their current CMS. We are looking for experts with experience in similar eCommerce/Courseware CMS solutions that can do what BVSoftware does, but has more design flexibility (i.e. themes and theme preview, primarily CSS based, easy to use Admin backend, plug-in architecture, etc.). Applicants should have knowledge of multiple CMS solutions and should be able to explain each solutions pros and cons and speak to technical issues as well as practical issues. Upon award of this contract and the signing of confidentiality agreements, we will provide you with a link to the site so that you may explore. Then we will have a followup conference via telephone or skype of GoToMeeting to discuss the needs and challenges of upgrading and migration. Ultimately we will be looking for a report on available options, and your recommendations for solutions to address our specific needs. There is a possibility for continued technical consultation through the duration of the project. As of now, we have no firm budget or timeframe. Those will be developed as this initial research phase draws to a close. Please provide us your experience in the form of sites you have worked on or consulted on in the past and any references you may have. Please provide an hourly rate for consultation only at this time (though do note any technical expertise you have, such as PHP or ASP programming or database administration.) If you require a minimum number of hours, please provide that information as well. Thank You.