A suggestion for the non-Flash support problem

I would have preferred to add this to the original thread, but it's locked so I can't!

I've got a suggestion as a workaround for the problem with the main site blocking users who don't have the latest version of Flash, or don't have it at all. As I've seen, there is a page that says, "You don't have Flash, you must upgrade," or words to that effect. Could you add a link to the forum index page at the bottom of that warning page? The forums do work (for me, at least) and it would mean people could still access useful information rather than being turned away at the front door as they are right now.

What do you think, is this change feasible?

A link to the adobe website where people can get the flash upgrade?

I believe she means a link directly to the Forum.
As in https://squarefoot.forumotion.com/
This would allow people access to information via the forum instead of being denied anything (as they are now if they don't have a browser that supports flash).

LOL I thought they were talking about having two different links on the bottom of the page for two different reasons! This talking without using my hands is HARD!

daisyhill wrote:I would have preferred to add this to the original thread, but it's locked so I can't!

I've got a suggestion as a workaround for the problem with the main site blocking users who don't have the latest version of Flash, or don't have it at all. As I've seen, there is a page that says, "You don't have Flash, you must upgrade," or words to that effect. Could you add a link to the forum index page at the bottom of that warning page? The forums do work (for me, at least) and it would mean people could still access useful information rather than being turned away at the front door as they are right now.

What do you think, is this change feasible?

This is a great idea. I am not sure as to how to implement this as that message comes from Adobe, but I will look into it. Thanks!

I took another look at the page (http://www.squarefootgardening.com/noflashhtml) - looks like it's created by whoever your web provider is (wix.com?) so you might not be able to access it from whatever the normal editor is. However you may well be able to add the link if you can access that page via FTP and edit it directly. I'm sure they have come up against this problem before, and there's bound to be a workaround if you can just find the right file to change!

I was rather shocked this morning when I visited the SFG website to learn that the standards-compliant website had been ditched for a Flash site. I can't fathom why this decision was made, as it makes the site inaccessible to so many users. Aside from the iPhone and iPad not being able to view the site (and thanks to Apple's new developer agreement, never will be able to), it is also inaccessible to people using screen readers and other assistive technologies. I am not a lawyer, but it seems that Flash-only sites in general do not comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act 1990.

It also breaks the following:
The ability for search engines to index the site (you'll want this fixed if you want more visitors!)
Browser navigation features: bookmarks, search, tabs, etc

Now for some constructive criticism, as I'm aware a lot of time was spent on the new site.
1. Add the ability to search the site. Information is too hard to find otherwise. (not sure if this is even possible with the way the site is set up)
2. Make at least the main navigation bar HTML, so different sections can be opened in new tabs. (pet peeve of mine)
3. Port at least parts of the site to HTML so they're accessible again. It doesn't have to be done in one fell swoop, just start with the navigation bar, and work your way from there.
OR:
4. Have the old website accessible to those who can't use the new site.

The only time you should be using Flash is for things that are not possible with current web standards. These days, that basically means cartoons and games, and to a lesser extent video/audio.

Cheers,
David

Hello Everyone,
Thank you for your great suggestions. I am working on getting all the issues fixed. The site is now Searchable by the search engines(SEO) I have made each main section separate for bookmarks and such. I want to set up a standard HTML site as I do know the limitations of Flash(which I am finding ways to overcome!). All I ask is for your patience. Thanks. Alan

The boss says he's workin' on it; that's good enough for me!

This thread is closed.