Flash and How It Can Be Used

Adobe Flash® is the most common and versatile way to animate items to be used in web browsers. What are some of the ways you can use Flash to bring some interest to your website or other projects?

Microsite

This is a fairly new term and has a specific use. When you have a new program, product, or something else you want to emphasize, a microsite is usually an interactive way to promote something special for you. There are many popularly known uses of microsites, most commonly for nationally known soft-drink manufacturers or fast-food restaurants. A sample microsite is linked to the top image on the right.

Banner Ads

You know those ads you see on the web pages you visit that catch your eye with movement or ask you to try to shoot the target? Those were probably done with Flash. In placing banner ads on websites, you usually have to meet the standards set by a webmaster and the file size has to be very small, usually less than 50k.

Multi-Media Presentations

Diagrams for books, presentations for seminars, streaming video - these are some common multi-media applications you can use Flash to create. For a sample of a book illustration created with Flash to be on the accompanying CD, click on the bottom image on the right.

Is It a Good Idea for My Website?

Good question. There has been discussion over the fast few years to not use Flash because search engines can't index the content. This is mainly a thing of the past. Google just recently signed an agreement with Adobe that they will make more effort to index the Flash content of web pages, although they have in reality been doing it for many years.
Beyond that, it is up to you. Many websites are created entirely with Flash. The site is much more visually appealing and attracts many more people, but, it is also more expensive to create.

Give us a call and we can evaluate your needs and help you decide.