The Multimedia Adventure

Multimedia computers are able to do things never before possible - creating a revolution in creativity and learning that is entering all aspects of our lives.
With new multimedia technology we can combine audio, graphics, text, animation, video and interactivity all in one presentation.
The Multimedia Adventure discusses these capabilities in depth including the use and production of interactive videodiscs (IVD), computer-based training (CBT) and compact disc-interactive (CD-I).
The authors walk the reader through several levels of interactive multimedia, from the basic to the complex and then beyond to future interactive models that include networking, miniaturization and performance support (including artificial intelligence and intelligent agents).
Stating that interactive technology is enabling program developers to do more than just create new learning environments, the authors claim that "we are about to enter a whole new universe," and that "we are on the verge of a great and exciting new adventure."
Emphasizing the fact that true interactive multimedia is more than text and graphics and video sequences, The Multimedia Adventure provides the reader with specific examples of several types of multimedia programming. The hardware and software needed in a multimedia workstation are outlined with guidelines for use and estimated costs.
Other chapters focus on basic text and graphic elements in an interactive multimedia program, including the creation of screens with illustrations, and buttons for navigation and answering questions.
The role of video in interactive multimedia is considered by the authors as an important aspect and is covered in several chapters which explore existing video that is repurposed to become part of a multimedia presentation, and original video - either the simple video elements that are produced with low-end production equipment, such as desktop video - or the more complex and advanced video presentations that have traditionally been referred to as advanced interactive video.
Advanced authoring systems developed for the Macintosh, DOS and Microsoft Windows platforms are analyzed as well as human interface design and the creation of multimedia prototypes which can serve as standards for further development.
Specialized principles and applications for multimedia are the focus of the final chapters of The Multimedia Adventure.