You are entering the world of non-linear editing (NLE). Professional video editors have used NLE to create video shows for many years. This was traditionally very expensive then, requiring dedicated NLE computer workstations with high-end digitizing adapters, expensive editing software, and high resolution monitors. Today, many computers are capable of at least minor video and audio editing without special equipment or adapters. This has brought the art of video editing within reach of another kind of professional—the instructional designer.

A nonlinear editing system makes nondestructive changes to source materials. What does this mean? You perform edits that change imported video, audio, and pictures on the timeline. But the changes only apply to the output, which will be substantially different from the originals when you are done. The timeline and preview window are your canvas for defining those changes. So, NLE is a method of bringing change to the program without ruining...