What is an image map?

An image map (also referred to as a "clickable image") is a graphic image on which you access to a specified URL by clicking a specific area. A clickable area on the image is provided by defining a shape (such as a polygon, circle, or rectangle) and its coordinates.

For example, you can create a page on which clicking a location displays related information. If you use the image map properly, you can create an attractive and easy-to-navigate page.

Caution!

Despite an image maps smart looks, it has a defect. If you cannot see an image, there is no way at all to follow the links. For example, the user either cannot or does not display the image with the browser. For users with sight impairments who recognize information converting it to voice, the links will be difficult to follow. This defect can be avoided by also providing normal character links in addition to the image map.