Describes "builds" and "filters," two simple forms to interactive media that the viewer can control to reveal new layers of information and that often save resources by replacing many separate graphics. (SR)

Reviews two graphic programs (Overhead Express and Sign-Master) available for preparing and producing audiovisual aids that can be used to accompany a speech or presentation. (PD)

Discusses characteristics of two-dimensional (2-D) animation; highlights include character animation, painting issues, and motion graphics. Sidebars present Silicon Graphics animations tools and 2-D animation programs for the desktop computer. (DGM)

Considers the confusion of over 20 different kinds of graphics programs. Briefly distinguishes between some of the more popular graphics formats (Photoshop, TIFF, JPEG, GIF, PICT, and EPS), and describes the benefits and disadvantages of each in the context of journalism education. (SC)

Describes a computer art program in a South Carolina school district that helps students become computer literate through the use of computer graphics. (MD)

Discusses the value of creating design documentation for computer software so that it may serve as a model for similar design efforts. Components of the software design document are described, including program flowcharts, graphic representation of screen displays, storyboards, and evaluation procedures. An example is given using HyperCard. (three…

Provides guidelines for home page design, and suggests that the physical appearance of a home page is similar to that of a good graphical user interface. In designing a complete home page file, the premise is that basic hypertext design principles could also be applied in the World Wide Web environment. (Author/JKP)

Argues that technical communicators should have a working definition of icons, know when to use them, and understand some of the problems inherent in icon design. Recommends using a workable icon classification system and adhering to some practical design guidelines. (SR)

Examines when and why a "safe" approach to visual design for Web pages is attractive to writers and writing teachers. Considers typical reasons for choosing a "safe" approach to designing the visual dimensions of Web pages, traditional sources in print graphics and writing for safe advice about visual design, and design…

Includes two reviews of computer software that may serve the speech communication professional: Fast Graphs and PC-File III. (PD)

States that every editor, designer, and printer has a favorite typeface and can usually give solid reasons for its use. Discusses the important aspects of type choice and use. Provides examples that illustrate typography terminology as well as special typographical effects that can be created with computers and software programs. (PA)

Follows the decision-making process for an embedded help solution to replace a help system that had trained users not to use it. Discusses solutions for implementing embedded help. Considers how to design a solution that not only lures users back to the user assistance, but also encourages users to learn more about the product. (SG)

Argues that instructors can help to alleviate students' fears regarding different multimedia techniques by taking time to give some basic file explanations. Discusses a few of the most common multimedia file types in Windows (graphic, audio, and video), as well as compressed files. Uses slide show software as a base because of its widespread use…

Explores computer uses in art education, addressing the apprehension with which many educators view such technology. Discusses the graphics capabilities and user-friendliness of computers such as the Macintosh, Amiga, and Atari ST. States that computer versatility, simplicity, and graphic capabilities contribute significantly to art education and…

Reviews relevant features for interactive video images of the four primary technologies that merge to intertwine themselves in interactive video (computers, television, instructional design, visual design); outlines critical structural elements of interactive video; and presents guidelines for creating interactive video images. (MBR)