I'm part way through developing a website from a template.
My boss asked me to place our company logo in place of some text that was on the initial flash screen of our website. I made the logo in Xara Xtreme and Xara 3D and exported it as .swf flash (bitmap). Trouble is the file size of the new logo.
Unfortunately, the bit he wants changed is part of the flash and it means changing from a 4kb text image to a static 43kb logo. (3D flash animation bumps it to over 150k, so I already ruled that out).
I don't think I can change to a simple bitmap image of smaller size, as the initial page is part of the templates index page flash which runs into the main page. Also I am using a .swf (flash) of specific dimensions (300x180 pixels).
My connection speed doesn't allow me to judge very clearly if this is going to cause a big problem, as I'm on an 5Mb connection.
I know there must be some impact on the loading but could you advise me if the initial load time for the start page is acceptable or too slow for you.
PS: We don't sell on the web so I'm not too worried about passing browsers. We only deal locally and just use it to refer local enquiries. But I still need it to run reasonably. The site is just to provide a web presence. We don't anticipate many sales from it,..at least for the moment.
http://www.bakerstv.co.uk
PS: The menu bar is from Xara Menu Maker. Do you think it's ok in this template? or would you recommend a different menu maker style?
Any other comments welcomed.