Keep it Small
This refers to the size of the file. All banners need to be either in a .gif or .jpg format to appear correctly on the website. This is also true if you are designing a banner for a Flash website. Keeping the size of the banner to a minimum will allow it to load faster. There is a good chance your visitors will not even get a chance to see your banner if it takes too long to load. There are a few websites that allow you to build a free Flash website. If you are using one of these sites be sure to test your website for loading speed and adjust it accordingly.
Add Animation
A static, or still, banner is completely acceptable, especially when it comes to basic websites. With this being said, website banners are much more eye-catching when they are made with animated elements. Banners with animation have proven to be the most effective in regard to getting visitors’ attention. Remember; don’t overdo the animations (which are created using Flash technology) because it will cause your banner to load slowly.
Banner Content
A website banner is only as good as its content. Keep in mind that you need your content to be a simple message, but one that gets the point across. Try to think of a catchy slogan. Sometimes it helps to add Flash effects to the test on banners. One of the worst things you can do is fill a website banner with a block of text. Not only will visitors not read the content, but they will also ignore the rest of the banner. Sometimes the only content a banner needs is a name or a website title. Create your banner as if you were visiting your own Flash website. If you wouldn’t take the time to read your own banner, your visitors surely won’t.
Color
Color is very important when designing a banner for your website, as it is when designing anything. Focus on creating a banner that coordinates with the colors that are used throughout your website. Be sure that the background of the banner contrasts with the background of the website. Creating this contrast will cause the banner to “pop” out at the visitors. Choose bright or neon colors for Flash elements ff you choose to use a free Flash website builder.
Graphic Software is Useful
Good graphic software can be a huge help when attempting to design a website banner. Consider watching a few online tutorials on the particular software before using it. You will be able to pick up several great tips on how to use different effects. An effective website banner can still be created without this type of software, but your design options will be limited.
These are just a few basic things to keep in mind when designing a banner for your website. You should take time to browse other websites that have banners. This is a great way to gather ideas for your banner. Keep in mind that great banners are not created in seconds. Actually, an effective and well-designed website banner can take a lot of time and effort. You should consider hiring a professional to design a banner for you if you do not have the appropriate time to spend on a website banner.
There are free banner generator websites on the internet. These websites allow you to create a banner with custom specifications for free. These are a great tool to use if you want a very basic banner, but not so much if you are looking to create a customized one. These generators only allow you to choose between a few different options in regard to the design of your banner. After you select your banner’s choices you will be given a chunk of HTML code to insert into your Flash website.
