To flash or not to flash … that is the old tired question

2admin • 10th Jun 2009 • Posts • accessibility, flash

I have a confession — I once developed websites that included flash elements.

Though it’s good to get that off my chest, I’m pleased to say that I never developed a site completely in flash. And in my defense, I have been developing websites for a number of years - and it wasn’t too long ago that a little flash “bling” was the fashion. Just like the avocado-colored appliance, every trend has it day.

While I firmly believe that there are times when the use of flash can increase usability, I would argue that in most cases there is always a better alternative. Somewhat dated articles, I still refer to the Alertbox articles written by Jakob Nielsen as a reminder: The first encouraging me to seek the alternative; the second offering guidelines when there is no other option.

Flash 99% Bad
Jakob Nielsen’s Alertbox, October 29, 2000

Although multimedia has its role on the Web, current Flash technology tends to discourage usability for three reasons: it makes bad design more likely, it breaks with the Web’s fundamental interaction style, and it consumes resources that would be better spent enhancing a site’s core value. Keep Reading

Making Flash Usable for Users With Disabilities
Jakob Nielsen’s Alertbox, October 14, 2002

Flash designs are easier for users with disabilities to use when designers combine visual and textual presentations, minimize incessant movement, decrease spacing between related objects, and simplify features. Keep Reading