Jessica Ledbetter

Usability of Flash Applications

Was looking for my notes on a Flash project and rediscovered a 2002 report from nngroup.

I really think the guidelines for designing with Flash are for any project.

Things that popped out at me (and made me nod my head):

  • Do good design
  • Familiar is good
  • Dancing bears is bad (“Don’t show gratuitous motion.”)
  • Don’t be annoying with sound/motion
  • If your purpose is information, don’t be silly (was re: should I use 5pt font size)
  • Be. Meaningful. (Though I think that’s up there with good design is good.)
  • Pass the remote (was re: letting users have control)
  • KISS and I don’t mean the band (Keep It Simple Stupid)

Also with the report came some excellent examples and a report on usability for those with disabilities. October 2002 was a long time ago, but the information still looks good. I wish I could buy all of their reports. But I (and you) can read his Alertbox for free!

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