Combined representation of a hierarchical data item collection

A hierarchical system is used to store data items easily capable of thumbnail representation (such as images). Such a hierarchical system may allow a folder (or other grouping) to contain both data items and sub-folders. The display of such a folder uses two display areas. In one display area, sub-folders are displayed using a list view, where text is the primary method for the display of the sub-folders which are contained in the folder. In the other display area, a grid view is used to display the data items. Thumbnail images are the primary components of the grid view. Functionality available to a user will change based on whether the user is browsing the list view or the grid view.