Flimpbruary Day 23: Why FLVs Always Trump SWFs

Since the FLIMP Platform is built on Adobe’s Flash® Platform, FLV (Flash Video) and SWF (Shockwave Flash) files can both be added to any flimp canvas.  FLVs and SWFs (also known as Flash animation) both provide the audiovisual experience that is a key component of web video marketing content:  moving images with sound.  However, from a flimp video landing page perspective, FLVs always trump SWFs.

  1. Flimp Reports can only track “video specific” data, including total viewing time, average viewing time, video starts and video watches to completion, for FLV files.
  2. Due to Flash® security issues, SWFs may not always render correctly.
  3. SWF files run in a loop, meaning they cannot be paused, stopped or restarted by the viewer.
  4. A “video only” snapshot for distribution cannot be captured if the only audiovisual content is a SWF.
  5. Design features, including rounded corners and/or drop shadows, can be added to FLV content within “create and edit”.

Also, FLV content can be easier to create than SWF content because a Flash programmer is not required to write the SWF code.
SWF files, especially small animated content pieces, can certainly be integrated into a flimp’s design, and in many cases are appropriate enhancements to your message. But make sure the SWF doesn’t compete with the main audiovisual content.

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