Flash Article

Setting up a Flash project for local and network playback

From the beginning, Adobe Flash has been a great option for creating content for local or web delivery; but playing content locally has become more challenging as the network features, file structure, and security features of Flash have grown. The best way to save yourself from frustration is to understand the features in place and what your options are for deployment.

Recently I worked with Aperian Global in San Francisco producing cultural training software for soldiers being deployed to Iraq. The project had the requirement of delivering both a web-based version and a non–web-based version of the application. We went the route of creating one Flash application that would be capable of meeting both requirements. To accomplish this, we used static XML files as a data source and built the application (website) in a way that the root folder could be launched from a web server or viewed independently on a local drive. It worked well in the end but there were many challenges and considerations along the way.

This article addresses the key points I learned on the project combined with an overview of the server protocols, delivery options, and security features in Adobe Flash Player. While there will be dramatic improvements in our options for desktop Flash media delivery in the near future, the information in this article is most useful for developers working directly with content in Flash Player 8 and higher.

Requirements

To make the most of this article, you'll need the following software:

Flash CS3 Professional

• Try
• Buy

Prerequisite knowledge

Although general experience in Flash is advised, this article is geared towards anyone interested in the local playback of Flash media.

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