1.4.1. Structure

Combination of Data

As mentioned above, a multimedia map combines data from different media. In most of the cases, these data are connected and related to each other by links. Many users appreciate this linking of data, because these links assist to understand the map's content or they provide further useful information.
Otherwise, too many links may easily confuse the user and leads to a state which is best described as being "lost in Hyperspace". Too many links may deter users from the map and its content. Instead, they are busy to orient themselves. To avoid this effect, the map designer has to link data carefully and deliberately.

Non-Sequential and Sequential Structure

A multimedia project may be structured in two different ways:

• Non-Sequential
  Multimedia projects are for the most part composed like a network. Hyperlinks and other instruments recalling available information by non-sequential mode. The user can skip arbitrarily to any position of the network at any time and recall concerted information. In non-sequential multimedia projects it is very important that users are provided with a clear orientation and that they are able to navigate easily within the project in order to not be overcome with the "lost in hyperspace" effect.
  
  Non-sequential application
  

• Sequential
  Alternatively to the non-sequential method, a sequentially structured application leads the user through it step-wise in an exploratory manner. The downside of this structure is that users can not decide which part of the application they want to deal with next.
  
  Sequential application
  

Usually, a non-sequential structure is chosen to design and implement a multimedia application.