INTRODUCTION

When Flash was first introduced by FutureWave Inc. in August 1996, it was known as "FutureSplash Animator." Macromedia acquired FutureWave in December and renamed application to "Flash." What made FutureSplash unique was fact that FutureSplash's images were created in "vector format."

As you may know, most images you see on Web (such as logo that appears on http://www.worlddesignservices.com/), are drawn by thousands, sometimes even millions, of colored square dots known as "pixels." Any image that displays shapes using pixels (called a "raster image") can have a significantly large file size since color and location of each dot must be recorded inside image file.

The vector graphic, on other hand, is an image type that uses mathematical equations to define lines and shapes. For example, a drawing of a circle uses only a single curved line, rather than relying on hundreds (or even thousands) of pixels to create an image. This not only results in a drastic decrease in file size, but also an increase in image quality. Vector graphics can be scaled up or down and never lose their sharp lines, whereas raster images end up looking "chunky." For a side-by-side comparison of vector and raster images, have a look at following page: http://www.worlddesignservices.com/designtips/flash/

Because Flash relies mostly on vector graphics to display text and images, it delivers excellent image quality and exceptionally small file sizes. On Internet, where no two users are ever connected at exactly same speed at same time, this reduced download is always appreciated.

THE GOOD

In unlikely event that you've never seen a Flash animation before, have a look at banner on top of http://www.internetcashplanet.com/. Not only does it look great, but it MOVES; Flash, when created properly, will deliver any message you want and keep your audience interested.

Gone are days of slow downloads and endless reading! As you've seen from previous comparisons, Flash banners deliver sharp, great-looking graphics which load quickly and get your message to your viewer fast. Flash banners also get read more often than your basic static HTML page because they have ability to move smoothly, whereas traditional animated web graphics are clunky at best. Everybody knows 30-second rule, which dictates that you MUST make an impression on your viewer within 30 seconds of them hitting your site if you want them to respond to your offers. Since this rule is ALWAYS in effect, a Flash banner's ability to transmit a message quickly, smoothly, and effectively is always worth investment.

The application of Flash reaches far beyond simple animated banner. Worldprofit's new "Ultimate Home Business Promo," when it was first released, generated so many responses, they were difficult for us to keep up with! Once you have a look at http://www.worldprofit.com/uhbp/, you'll probably understand why. Flash, when created properly, not only has power to captivate your site viewers, it also has power to strike emotional chords and make your viewers feel whatever you want them to: excitement, hope, enthusiasm.

THE BAD

Q: Why should a business hire a professional designer and marketer?

A: A professional designer and marketer will be able to evaluate your needs and give you a site that is effective. Here are a few things that we consider that an amateur will not.

It is crucial that you have a complimentary layout to content of your site. There is no point in having a long extended full screen web page when you only have one image and a single paragraph of copy.

The appropriate images must be used and placement is a main factor. Using improper images can actually confuse visitors and that is last thing that we want to do.

The file sizes must be minimized. If it takes too long for your pages to load, then people will leave.

Marketing is of utmost importance. An effective marketer will know how to keep people at your site and help you make sales. We look at sites and think they are properly designed, but when they are compared to ones that have been created by a professional, we realize that they have not considered all of factors above. Don't take chances with your company's reputation. Get a professional designer and marketer to work with you and create that effective site that you need.

Q: What should businesses look for in hiring a web site designer?

A: Look at their portfolio. When you see quality from a designer, then quality is what you will get. Often I see design companies that have portfolios that look like they just started last week. You do not have to like colors or even layout, but consider if site is effective. If I complete a dog grooming site, then look at site and ask yourself, "Is this site effective? What are benefits for me? What do I get? Why should I stick around?" If you go to a site that you wouldn't even want to stay at, then why would you want that same designer to make a site for you?

Q: Cris, tell me what you think is biggest mistake people make in their web sites?

A: I believe that people are overly concerned with inundating their site with dynamic elements. Let me explain. Dynamic means: "Of or relating to energy or to objects in motion." Static means that nothing is moving. We often think dynamic is better that static. This is not always case. Yes, a flash presentation or banner is a vital element to success of your site, but if it is designed improperly, then it is just an eyesore. In same regard, having a static site with no flash or javascripts or any type of motion can be so beautifully laid out and effectively marketed. We don't need scripts or animated gifs all over our sites to make them effective. People do indeed enjoy motion, so my suggestion is this: limit energy on your site to focus on one thing. This thing should make you money or bring visitors back. Add flash to your site and loose annoying animated gifs. Flash can market your site, whereas animated gifs are often a distraction.

Q: What factors do you consider when it comes to use of color in a site?