If the user is sufficiently informed of the content of the image then a judgement can be made as to interest in it being downloaded. It is only after clicking on the book in question that a thumbnail image will appear. Only on clicking on the thumbnail will the cover appear full screen. The Image as Navigation Tool Certain images can help the user to navigate the site more easily. The visual element does not make up the information content as such but it is a tool that allows access to that information.
Classic examples are interactive geographical maps.
Inforegio uses the geographical approach showing an initial European map leading to national maps offering access to regional information on European regional policy. Certain multimedia CD Roms use the principle of dated time lines acting as markers. This is based on a chronological visual approach to locating information of interest. Some companies present an interactive group photo - by clicking on the different faces the visitor can access detailed information on the professional profile of each of the members of the team. Designers of Internet sites often use other images such as thumbnails, icons and other buttons at the interface level to ease navigation around the site.