Using Flash

Web Banner Tip #9 - Using Flash
Flash has thrown open a complete new area in web banner ad design. Flash animations are much smoother than animated GIFs and the file sizes are a lot smaller. Flash banners can also be made interactive, involving the visitor directly. Banners developed in Flash generate higher click-thru rates than animated GIFs.

Does this mean that the days of animated GIFs are over? The answer is Yes and No! Displaying Flash banners requires a plugin on the viewers’ system. Not all surfers would have this plugin (though the percentage of such users is decreasing by the day). Whenever you submit a Flash banner for a banner ad campaign, you are asked for the animated GIF version as well. Animated GIFs are still standing tall!