Multimedia Programmer
Job description
A multimedia programmer writes computer programs that draw together text, sound, graphics, digital/analogue photographs, 2D/3D modeling, animation, video, information and virtual reality in order to produce a multimedia product. Multimedia products are designed to work on particular 'platforms', such as the internet, interactive TV, CD-ROMs, information kiosks, DVD's, computer games consoles and WAP mobile phones. The programmer may come from a design or computing background but the role demands a combination of both creative and technical skills. The term multimedia is used interchangeably with other terms such as interactive media, digital media, new media, and online/internet services.
Typical work activities
Working as a multimedia programmer involves working as a member of a team to produce multimedia products for a variety of purposes including: business software; computer games; corporate promotional materials; e-commerce; entertainment and media; internet marketing; information products, such as easy-to-search databases; learning materials for use in education and business (e-learning); product design/demonstration, for example, use of computer-aided design (CAD), 3D and virtual reality; computer testing and simulation, for example use of 3D modeling in the design of various products such as fashion and packaging. Multimedia programming is extremely complex and can involve large teams of programmers with a variety of roles and functions to create a single product. Multimedia programmers work to meet client needs in the most effective way and ensure that the end product is both attractive and user friendly. Typical activities are likely to include:
- sequencing, which requires the skill to put the different media sequences together logically and involves making animation happen at the right time, using sound effects appropriately and generally implementing the instructions of the creative designer;
- programming, which can include using languages such as Action Script, Lingo, C++ and Visual Basic, or might simply involve moving icons on screens. Website programming can be 'back-end' programming, for example developing databases of customers and resources for e-commerce. Designing web pages is also a feature of programming, which would involve programming links to company databases or creating graphic effects and producing images for company presentations.
Much of the work focuses on:
- designing and writing computer codes;
- testing codes;
- testing codes;
- creating an accessible computer/user interface.
The multimedia programmer will incorporate elements of different media into a whole presentation, drawing upon knowledge of internet programming languages and applications, and develop customised tools for use by other team members.