“Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should”

Never before has such an expression been so true in relation to web design. With ever-increasing bandwidth, faster computers and greater technologies to drive the Internet being constantly developed, it is very easy to let ‘artistry’ take precedent over ‘design’.

The Good

Although I would argue that Splash pages are generally detrimental, there are instances where they actually improve the viewers experience, the functionality and design of the website. Typically, rich media websites, and websites that feature a small catalogue of exclusive and innovative products make best use of Splash pages. For example, a website advertising a forthcoming blockbuster movie would benefit from a Splash page to immerse the viewer in the experience and generate excitement, in an attempt to encourage the viewer to want to go and see the movie upon its release. Websites advertising games, new cars, and high-end consumer electronics use Splash pages to similar effect.

Another function of a Splash page is to tell the user what kind of browser and other software they need to view the site. Although I would argue that website should be designed to remove such restrictions, it may be necessary to design your website to require users to meet certain criteria or be validated before having access to the website. Splash pages excel in such instances, and are better suited to this function than the typical application of attention-capturing through visual or multimedia effects.

The Bad and the Ugly

I’m often asked to design ‘Splash Pages’, Flash animated introductions to the website, to which I immediately ask, “OK, why do you think you need that?” The typical response centres around their belief that this will make them look more ‘professional’, when often this results in the opposite. Studies show that 25% of visitors will immediately leave a website with a Splash page. Users enter your website to view the useful content on your website, and a Splash page delays or for some viewers, prohibits that. Viewers typically believe that they are pretentious and they tend work against your efforts to improve the search engine rankings on your website. This is due to the fact that there is less relevant content to reference, especially when you consider that most Splash pages only feature a Flash based animation.

Are you considering using a Splash page? Think about the pros and cons before making your decision, to determine if it will make a positive difference to the viewer’s experience. I personally believe that most websites with Splash pages would perform better without them, as in most instances the cons outweigh the benefits. Designers should promote good functionality, accessibility and be sensitive to the viewer’s likes and dislikes. Splash pages tend to go against all of these ideals, but while the client is misguided and the web-designer prioritises profit, above good design, it is more probable that this trend will continue.

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