Online banner ads typically come in three formats: static (non-moving, single image), animated (rotating through multiple frames), and Flash (smooth animation, similar to an animated movie). While custom Flash advertisements require purchasing Flash software or hiring a Flash designer, you can create Flash banner ads for little or no cost using pre-existing templates provided by online banner ad creation services. You'll be somewhat limited in terms of what your banner can look like, but if your budget's tight, a web-based Flash banner service is an attractive option for promoting your website.
Instructions
1. Choose a size for your banner ad. The most common types include Leaderboard (728 by 90), Large Rectangle (336 by 280), Medium Rectangle (300 by 250), Wide skyscraper (160 by 600), and Banner (468 by 60). Banners are measured in pixels.
2. Brainstorm what you want your Flash banner ad to say. Since Flash lets you scroll text, you can include a slightly longer message in a Flash banner ad than other ad formats. Still, website visitors' attention spans are very short, so you should keep your message brief and catchy. Make them want to click on the banner (and visit your website) to learn more.
3. Use a web-based Flash banner creator (see Resources for three links) to create your final banner(s). Select an animation style from the service's library, enter your text, and customize the font and colors.
4. Save the banner to your hard drive once you are satisfied with its appearance by right-clicking on the image and selecting "Save As."
Tags: Flash banner, Flash banner, web-based Flash, web-based Flash banner, your banner, your website