- What Is Linear Vs Nonlinear Multimedia?
Linear and non-linear multimedia are two different categories that are applicable to the world of multimedia. The main difference is that linear multimedia does not feature any sort of navigational abilities. The linear multimedia will go from the start all the way through to the finish without variation. Non-linear media is the opposite; it doesn't follow that one-way structure and instead allows free movement around all aspects of the multimedia in any order.
- What does the term 'multimedia' refer to?
Multimedia refers to all types of media that are available to people through all the different mediums available. These include audio, video, animation, still imagery, text and interactivity.
- Multimedia in context: An example
One of the best examples of non-linear multimedia would be the Internet. It is a network of websites that are all connected and users can navigate from one webpage to the next without any sort of order or structure required. The Internet would be very frustrating to use if it was to follow a linear structure.
However - a multimedia presentation would follow more of a linear structure. This is because it would give the presentation a chronological order and a lot more focus than if the presenters were dotting around the presentation at random. A non-linear format would not be all that beneficial in these circumstances.
There are benefits and drawbacks to both categories of multimedia. The most effective way to approach multimedia is to use both categories when the scenario is appropriate. By targeting your multimedia in the correct structure you ensuring that it is as effective as possible.
