The present invention provides an interactive multimedia system for providing structured information systems, for example help systems for desktop and network based applications. The invention employs an interactive multimedia runtime container and rich media content and other data files for the structured system navigational components such as the Table of Contents (TOC), Index, Search, and Glossary. In another aspect, the invention provides a structured navigation interface through the use of rich media files driven by data files which allow the user or the author to create a customized appearance for the structured information system. The system is advantageously cross-browser and cross-platform compatible and ensures consistent navigation and look and feel across platforms and browsers. The system additionally provides compatibility with high security networks and firewall systems, allows authors to focus on content without concern over platform and browser compatibility issues, and brings powerful, appealing new visual options to authors.