Human Factors and the Acoustic Ecology: Considerations for Multimedia Audio Design. Bruce N. Walker Psychology Department, Rice University P.O. Box 1892 Houston, TX 77251 (713) 527-8101 Fax: (713) 285-5221 walkerb@rice.edu Gregory Kramer Clarity/Santa Fe Institute 310 NW Brynwood Lane Portland, OR 97229 (503) 292-8550 Fax: 503-292-4982 kramer@listen.com Running Head: multimedia human factors ABSTRACT Acoustic designers face new challenges as audio, video and computers converge into the synergy of multimedia. The sound engineer must consider the human factors and acoustic ecology involved in the new "conversation" between listeners and a multimedia system. An organized and centralized sound design will make the audio element a rich ingredient in the multimedia experience.