Why Use Flash Technology?

Macromedia^® Flash^® MX is the standard technology for creating high-impact, vector-based Web content that delivers motion, sound, interactivity, and graphics. Macromedia Flash MX uses vector-based animation enabling one to create extremely small file sizes that stream easily, even at low bandwidth (modem rate connections).

The creation of modules with small files is very important because the majority of Internet users are likely to remain connected with low bandwidth connections in the foreseeable future. Equally important is the creation of modules that can be viewed on a wide range of computers. Macromedia Flash modules can be viewed on all major computer platforms (PC, Macintosh, Linux).

Flash modules do require a browser plug-in to be viewed. However, this is not a problem due to their wide distribution and browser support. In March 2003, NPD Research, the parent company of Media Metrix, found that 98.4% of Web users can utilize Macromedia Flash without having to download and install a player. This means that over 500 million users can view Flash modules.

Thus, the broad acceptance of Flash makes it an excellent technology for distribution of content and stability of use over longer periods of time. The only other Internet plug-in that has gained equal use within Internet browsers is Adobe^® Acrobat^® Reader.

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