Is Flash BAD?

[Steven1976a]

Is Flash BAD?

I want to include a small promo box with a dynamic flash animation/message. I think dynamic animation is possible right? So that if our promo changes the wording on our promo will change.

If you visit http://www.media-synergies.com/bodyj...cat.asp?POS=11 and see the bottom left box in purple on the left menu, I want this to be able to change so that it displays our discounts, current promos, shipping rates worldwide etc....

Previously we used a GIF on our current website www.bodyjewelryshopping.com but Im looking for it to be dynamic if we change the promos in our control panel.

The Question is, if we include a small flash file here will it cause problems for SEO? My understanding is that the problem with Flash is that search engines can not read the info within the Flash file and it may also slow down the loading speed of a page? Or is there anything else that Flash can cause problems with SEO?

[incrediblehelp]

That should be fine, post here after your done with your page and we can review again.

[adverlicious]

Used in moderation as you describe, Flash should be fine for your site.

Importantly, please keep an eye on what version of Flash your designer is using. Do NOT use anything newer than what is required to execute your visual goal -- doing otherwise can lead to needless compatibility problems.

Also, consider a back-up image of some kind for the (small) number of visitors who will insist on a Flash-free site. Until recently, this would have included Linux browsers. It now seems to be people using text-only browsers, antique 2.0/3.0/4.0 browsers, a handful of mobile devices, and diehards who simply hate Flash.