Flash-ing lights (lights... lights... lights... lights) :)

The lovely computer application we know as Macromedia Flash has nothing to do with Kanye West and his hit smash "Flashing Lights," but as West crafts a rhythm for our ears, Flash creates a rhythm for internet users. Flash and journalism seem perfect for each other and bring out the best in the widening area where technology and news meet. We can fulfill our jobs as journalists by providing the public with the news they need but also meet them partially in their comfort zone by presenting that news in a format they want. By catering to the generation of which I am a part, the "me" generation, to whom instant gratification is holier than quality information, Flash allows the old-school values of knowledge and the new-school demand for speed to merge, satisfying most parties. The fascination to see things in a sleek, new, professional way is also a keen one in today's internet consumer, and the clean and crisp way Flash presents information meets that need. As we discussed in class,  I feel that using Flash can go a bit far, turning news into a video game for example, is pushing the envelope to the point where fun and news are no longer meeting, but fun usurps news. As long as we keep asking ourselves if we're allowing the information and demands to simply meet rather than destroying the content in favor of entertainment, I think that Flash will continue to be the vehicle for better and more innovative journalism for a new set of consumers. 

Kelsey Proud