What about animation and Flash™?

We like to use animation sparingly on web sites. A good use of it is to call attention to certain products. Images that change slowly do not interfere with people's ability to concentrate on the site and can add a lot of interest to a page. We usually prefer to accomplish this with javascript for several reasons, one of which is that if someone doesn't like to see animation on the pages they browse, they can simply turn it off in their browser options.

We love Flash™ but we're not a big fan of web sites that rely on it for their navigation and/or home page. It's nice, in fact it's usually gorgeous, but it has it's place. And if it doesn't work for someone, it can mean that they can't use your site. Not everyone has a high speed internet connection, and even those who do don't necessarily want to wait those extra moments. Also it requires a browser 'helper application' which someone has to download and install. It's similar to the Adobe Reader in that it is free and it has come installed on most machines for a while now so the fact that is is an 'add on' isn't as much of an issue as the fact that most Flash™ files are a lot bigger than 'normal' web pages. However, there are exceptions, and we are pleased to work with Flash artists who want to subcontract the html for sites they have designed.

We do love Flash™ for special functions. If you'd like Flash™ on your site, or we think your site would benefit from some Flash™ features and you agree, we can recommend an artist if you don't already have your own.

We know we're supposed to do what the client wants, as opposed to imposing our own point of view on projects, but one of the reasons you have us do your site is to help you decide the best course of action when creating it. With the exception of routines like non distracting images that rotate, and/or well done fade sequences done with Flash™, in general we hate web pages with annoying little things that blink or move without stopping, and most people agree with us.

We love animation when it's used appropriately. Depending on how involved the animation needs to be, another alternative to 'Flash' is an animated gif. We like them because they do not require any extra add-ins and are small files if the images are kept simple. Little animated gifs can be useful for adding eye candy to a site if they are used sparingly and appropriately. Besides being fun if cute and well done, Movement calls attention to information on a page in a way nothing else can. Unless there is a really good reason not to, we do like to limit their life span - i.e., just make them run for a second or two and then stop. We also like to give the web page viewer a means to restart the animations if they would like to play with the page. It's just another way to keep them there longer ... :)