Types of Multimedia Titles

The best multimedia applications are interactive. Unlike turning pages in a book, a multimedia application can shift the information focus at the viewer's whim. If the scene presented isn't desirable, the user can choose another. The focus remains the information provided; graphics, audio, and animation help make that information more accessible. When applied creatively, these multimedia capabilities can greatly enhance software applications. The acronym PIECE stands for the five basic areas where multimedia might be successfully applied:

Productivity

Information

Entertainment

Creativity

Education

You can build applications specific to each area, or you can create multimedia presentations with aspects of each. The only limit is your creative application of the technology. The following pages briefly describe each area; the discussions are meant to start you thinking.