The core of the problem to me is that most designers don't utilize Flash in the appropriate areas. Flash isn't just about presentation nowadays, it's about interactivity. Even the slightest interactivity proves its life in a website. However, this doesn't count if it's the Replay button.

That said, clients too have a problem of demanding Flash in the wrong places. Most of the time they'll go like, "oh, I kinda like what this site has..the motion thing before entering the website.." In my mind, "why do you need an intro if your company is about e-commerce or a product..?" Might as well put an tv-ad type there instead of an intro.

But some clients insist on having those movies in there even after they hire us for professional advice, so afaik, i'll still do it because they're willing to pay for it.

I agree with you there that intro pages should be used only for a length of time. That said, I think if anyone wants to have a Flash intro can do so but maybe let it be there for only a month. After that, move up the actual website homepage to the front and have a View Intro button or link somewhere.

Well, if you're using Flash 8.. there are the blends like Photoshop now. I haven't tried it personally yet.

It might replace HTML when there isn't preloading needed to be done. Meaning it's instant like HTML and not to mention, it needs a player that is compatible with all kinds of browsers to even maybe screen readers.

By then, I think we wouldn't hava HTML anymore.

but that's the thing really.. if not everyone has the plugin or if Macromedia doesn't cut a deal with Apple or MS to bundle the Flash player together, the reach of Flash entirely still isn't there yet.

not to mention about what I said earlier for screen readers and such..

I'm worried of backwards compatibility with files especially..

To the general public or the average visitor, they don't really care about what's bundled in the new Flash. To them, it's just about being able to enjoy the experience or have a friendly experience with your website.

That said, I think that Macromedia might need a new take on promoting Flash to the world instead of just being video importable, look nice and flexble, supports backend integration and techy stuff.

What Macromedia maybe needs is to educate the public on why Flash is the future..