Digital items organized by the arkhe system are fully searchable using Boolean operators in ten fields, including creator, title, location and date. Another mode of access is provided by randomly generated thumbnail images loaded at brief intervals and displayed consecutively. Clicking on search generated text links or any of the randomly generated images sends the user to the appropriate location in the database. Both the search engine and the random image generator are included on the home page of any arkhe-based collection.

As an archive system, arkhe provides for multiple links among text, image and audiovisual resources, allowing users to follow scripted lecture-like tracks through an arkhe-based archive; to develop personal itineraries through the material by pursuing relationships suggested under the 'see also' function within the database; to find specific materials using the hoe page search engine; by following idiosyncratic itineraries based on the random image function; or by employing a combination of these strategies.

Overall, arkhe is intended to foster relationships between visual perception and intellectual work; between research and speculation; and between navigation and chance. arkhe's features and its special tools (currently under development) can be used for a number of difference purposes, including posting archives online, conducting web-environment courses, creating presentation materials, and carrying out research.