One of the limitations of microscopy is that only a relatively small area is viewed and that both microscopic and macroscopic information is needed to better understand a process or relationship. Microscopic structures that can only be seen at high magnification may appear insignificant at magnifications required to see macroscopic structures. Montages from the scanning electron microscope (SEM) and optical microscope allow large areas to be displayed at relatively high magnifications revealing both macroscopic and microscopic features.

The use of automated digital microscopy and image software have reduced the barriers for creation of montages and provided new display modes, thereby stimulating their use as an enhanced data acquisition, review, and interpretation technique.

The ability to create digital montages is a valuable tool in the analysis of cement and concrete. It has been used to evaluate the relationship between small scale deleterious phases and their larger scale effects.