Flash and Director : Designing Multiuser Web Sites

The Internet works in real-time and is accessible to anyone with a modem. The importance of this for a web designer working in the brave new broadband world is that multi-user interactivity is the way to go if you want to create a really slick-looking modern site. Sites like HabboHotel.com and FutureFarmers.com have already created multi-user interfaces wherein designers can interact with other designers as well as the virtual world surrounding them--creating a true online community. In this book, a collection of professional designers provide tutorials on how to construct multi-user environments. Flash and Director Multi User Web StudioLab assumes you know how Director and Flash work (expect no hand-holding with the basics) but will include an introduction to Atmosphere. Exploring areas such as how XML works with Flash and how mobile devices can be integrated into design, this book showcases the sophisticated techniques used by professionals creating the most exciting multi-user interfaces. Multi-user technology allows users to share insights and experiences while interacting in real time within a web environment. The multi-user interface is a versatile and exciting area of web development being driven by the creation of powerful new softwares and aided by the exponential growth of broadband. Development of this technology is in its most exciting early stages, and its application will soon be limited only by the designer's imagination. Some current applications are creative forums (FutureFarmers.com and Vectorama.org), games (Zanpo.com), chatrooms (HabboHotel.com), and education (ActiveWorlds.com). Technology supporting the radical new wave of multi-user interfaces includes Director 8.5, which has the ability to act as a multi-user server, whilst Shockwave creates a slick-looking front end. What you'll learn Who this book is for Professional web designers who wish to increase site traffic by introducing the magnetic appeal of an interactive multi-user interface 3D designers looking for new outlets for their skills Flash and director designers looking for outlets for their skills Game designers looking to explore new creative avenues