Judging by the numerous CD-ROM reviews appearing in the public forum (e.g. CD Source Line, CD-ROM on-line magazine, Anders CD-ROM survey) it is easy to see how pervasive the 'more is more' philosophy has become. Many view quantity and sophistication of multimedia information as important indicators of the value of an educational CD-ROM. For example, a typical review of Encarta'96, includes, phrases like, "it's packed with clever features, top-notch multimedia" and for The Way Things Work, "beautiful illustrations prompt wonderful animations...There is lots here...and it's all very accessible".

One of the main differences is that multimedia allows for rapid access to multiple representations of information.