A survey of current practice in the development of multimedia systems

Abstract A better understanding of the distinguishing characteristics of different forms of system development is vital if we are to tailor recommendations regarding good practice to the specific needs of particular projects. This paper presents the findings of a survey carried out in order to ascertain the current state of practice amongst developers of multimedia systems. The survey involved conducting structured interviews with professional multimedia developers from seven different organizations, and analysing feedback from postal questionnaires completed by developers working in 16 further organizations. The findings are used here to identify some of the features which distinguish multimedia system development projects from more conventional software developments.