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Web developers call them “rich media enhancements.” Broadband users call them “cool and cutting edge.” Internet users with dial-up connections have a different description: “maddeningly slow.” What are these mysterious, controversial things? Web pages with multimedia effects like Flash, background music, Java animations, and other special effects. Think carefully before you include any on your Web site.

Each new generation of Web browsers offers more multimedia capabilities than before. Often these capabilities are part of the browser itself, but other multimedia effects require users to install special software called plug-ins in Netscape and Active-X components in Explorer. Generally, the term “plugin” refers to either Netscape’s plug-in technology or Active-X components. The most common are RealOnePlayer (formerly RealPlayer), Flash, and Java.

As with Web browsers, there are any number of different versions of each plug-in. Special effects designed using the latest software may not work with the older versions still prevalent on users’ machines. People with brand new computers may still be running old versions of Java. Applets created using the newer versions may not render properly—if at all.

And many people are notoriously slow to upgrade to the latest browser versions. They’re even more reluctant to download and install plug-in software applications. The reason is a combination of ignorance (don’t know how), apathy (not that interested in your multimedia), and fear (what if it’s a trick to get them to download a virus?).

It’s difficult for a Web site to convince visitors to download and install special software just to look at the site. You have to convince them that the extra effort involved is worthwhile. That’s why it’s so important for you to carefully consider your options before you load up your site with multimedia effects. Many multimedia applications—especially Flash – have gotten bad reputations among some users. Like any tool, they can be used for good or bad. Flash is too often used in annoying pop-up window ads. Visitors aren’t just bombarded by unwanted browser windows, but often they’re invited to download and install the latest Flash plug-in just to view somebody’s ad!

Plug-ins can really bloat your page’s size and increase download times. Don’t count on people having either the patience or goodwill to wait. For example, suppose you have a Flash animation that’s 350k in size. While this animation loads within 4 seconds over a T1 line, it takes a shocking 50.92 seconds to load over a 56k modem. If the special effect is really vital to your page, then carefully explain why, as in “You must have Flash 6 installed to play this game.” Then visitors will understand just how they’ll benefit. They’ll know that you aren’t just trying to sell them a digital camera or something.

Many designers view the Web as an “experience” while average users see the Web as a tool to gather information. If you can create a Web page that is both a fast information tool and an exciting experience then you’re an exceptional designer!

Add too much fancy stuff (the bells and whistles), and you may find that few visitors have the patience to hear and enjoy them! If you really need multimedia on your site, then use it. If not, resist the temptation and enjoy the benefits of speedy downloads and repeat visitors!

Internet users are often impatient and have a lot of other options. There are literally millions of sites for them to choose from. Don’t let your design choices drive them away from your site. (Franco O. Mendoza is a Verizon Pacifica System Administrator)