Flash vs Static vs Hybrid

Often we're asked: Which is better, Flash or Static? Here we break down some advantages and disadvantages of using both.

Flash

If you're in a creative field and the main purpose of your website is to entertain or showcase artistic results, then why not utilise the multimedia features available in flash to fully show it off!

Animation, Video, Games, Interactivity

Flash allows you to include a lot of attractive and interactive elements to a website. You can include short video clips, music and animation, as well as create your own games and interactive menus. Your only limit is your imagination.

Flash is self contained

One of the things that designers need to keep in mind when designing for the web is that every computer is different. A certain font on your computer may not be available on someone else's. Luckily, Flash is self contained. No matter how you design it, it will look the same on all web browsers and computer platforms.

(Almost) Everyone can Access It

Over 95% of web users today have the Flash Player already installed on their computers, which means there is no additional software to download and confuse your user. They will already have the ability to view the Flash files in its entire splendor.

Fast to Load

Flash files are generally very small in size, meaning they are fast to load. If you are using larger files (such is the case when adding video or sound), flash gives you the ability to preload your files, and even include a loading indicator so your users know how long they will be waiting. Once the full flash file is loaded they won't need to wait for each page to load again.

Static

When being flashy is not a priority, a static website can be an ease to maintain, and a simple way to get all the right information across and your message conveyed.

Easy to Update, Use a Content Management System (CMS)

A static website is easier to update. Even if you are proficient in Flash, maintaining a flash website can be expensive and time consuming. It is also easier to integrate a Content Management System with a static website that will allow someone who may not know much about web technology to update and maintain their own website.

Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

Search engines such as Google, advanced as they are, are not able to completely index the text inside flash files yet. With a well written static site, your website can be properly indexed and able to be located through a search.

Hybrid

You don't have to choose one option over the other. Why not incorporate both and include flash elements into a static site?

Ad banners

Flash elements are often used as ad banners because you are able to add attractive animated elements and as such they have much higher click-through rates than static images.

Interactive menus

Using animation in a menu can add a dynamic element to any page.

Flash intros

While flash intros are not as popular as they were a few years ago, when used properly they can still be a good way of attracting the users attention and as a visual introduction to your company.

Some users are not interested in a presentation and are only looking to find the right information; others like to be entertained while they browse. It's important to understand your potential users and what they might want out of your website in order to find the right balance.

So, Flash vs Static, which is better? The real question is: Which is better for you?

Still confused? Don’t hesitate to contact one of our consultants to discuss the specific needs of your project.

Posted by Leigh Nguyen

14 February 2008