I used to love Flash… about 5 years ago. I don’t, and won’t use Flash for any of my client’s websites anymore. This is for a number of reasons.
- first of all, current web marketing trends have moved away from Flash
- The majority of smart phones and mobile devices sold today will not play Flash
- Studies have shown that the only people who like extravagant Flash intros are the site’s owners. Everyone else skips on through to the content.
- A lot of Flash photo galleries are sluggish and limit the way you view the photos in the gallery
- and the list goes on…
Two More Big Reasons…
A couple other big developments have surfaced recently that should make you want to drop Flash.
1. Microsoft Stuff
Microsoft has announced that their browser, Internet Explorer 10 (metro style) will not support Flash. For Windows 8, they have big plans for developing a touch interface. Those plans don’t include Flash. Consumers who still need Flash (who is this?!) will still be able to purchase Microsoft’s versions aimed toward the desktop market that will still support Flash, but are you starting to read the writing on the wall? If not, consider this…
2. Adobe Stuff
Adobe is going to stop working on Flash development for mobile devices. They will shift that focus to HTML5.
You Want the Most Effective Web Presence Possible
So, considering….
- my short list at the top of the page,
- Apple Inc’s position on Flash,
- the geometrically exploding mobile market,
- and many other good reasons…
…these new decisions from both Microsoft and Adobe should provide all the motivation needed for businesses still using flash to drop it like a hot potato.
Are You Still Flashing?
If you’re still using Flash on your site (or maybe your whole site is done in flash), don’t think of this as a negative. Look at this as strong positive inspiration to improve your business’ accessibility and effectiveness online. This means better business potential. That means better revenue potential. And THAT IS VERY EXCITING!
