With the end of Adobe Flash in December 2020, many organizations find themselves at a crossroads concerning their legacy Flash-based content. As technology continues to evolve, it’s crucial to have a modernization strategy for these resources. Here are 7 options to consider as you finalize your strategy for transitioning away from Flash.
1. HTML5 Conversion: This is the most straightforward option. HTML5 can replicate most Flash functionality and is supported by all modern web browsers. It’s especially suitable for interactive content like games, simulations, and educational materials.
2. Use a Flash Content Wrapper: Various third-party solutions allow you to wrap your existing Flash content in a new layer that makes it usable on modern systems. This can be a temporary fix while you explore more permanent solutions.
3. Video Recording: For static or non-interactive Flash content, consider recording it as a video. Videos are accessible on all devices and platforms. This option does mean losing interactivity, so it might not work for all types of content.
4. Rapid E-learning Tools: Tools like Articulate Storyline or Adobe Captivate can be used to recreate the Flash content into new formats more amenable to modern learners.
5. Move to Authoring Platforms: Platforms like Elucidat, Gomo, or Lectora provide robust ways to create content that’s device-agnostic and mobile-friendly, which allows for greater flexibility than Flash ever did.
6. Migration to Learning Management Systems (LMS): Migrating your Legacy Flash content into an LMS could streamline delivery and tracking of modules and courses, and LMS providers are always updating their systems to be compatible with the latest web standards.
7. Archiving: In some cases, your best option might be simply to archive your old flash content – this is particularly relevant if updating the content will not present a good return on investment or if it is seldom used.
While choosing among these options consider factors such as the purpose of the content, audience needs, resource availability, timeline for transition, and cost implications. Each organization will have unique needs making some options more viable than others; therefore, careful planning and analysis are required to ensure that your transition away from legacy Flash content is successful.