Hypermedia is a term created by Ted Nelson in 1970. It used as a logical extension of the term hypertext, in which graphics, audio, video, plain text and hyperlinks intertwine to create a generally non-linear medium of information. This contrasts with multimedia, which, although often capable of random access in terms of the physical medium, is essentially linear in nature. The difference should also be noted with hypergraphics or super-writing which is a Lettrist form from the 1950s which systemises creativity across disciplines.

The World Wide Web is a classic example of hypermedia, whereas a movie on a DVD is an example of standard multimedia. The lines between the two can (and often do) blur depending on how a particular technological medium is implemented.

The first hypermedia system was the Aspen Movie Map.

Hypertext

Hypermedia | Hipermedia | Hipermédia | Hipermedia | Hypermedia