When utilized properly, adding audio and video into your website can have a profound impact on the visitor’s experience. Unfortunately, these items can have a profound impact when used improperly as well.
Invasive content is content that is presented to a website visitor without that visitor having taken any action to experience it. The most common invasive content found on a website is generally having music or videos begin playing the moment an individual comes to a website. While the intent is generally to make a dynamic impact on the visitor, it can actually have a negative impact if the viewer finds the content distracting. This can lead to results such as the viewer either turning off their speakers, or leaving the website altogether. Furthermore, if the person was annoyed by the invasive content, then they are more likely to not return to your site.
As a general rule, it is better to require a “click to play” feature on any audio or video features within your website. If you do feel that you must have an auto play feature, then make sure that the media is easily turned off so that visitors do not have to spend their time searching for a way to disable it if they choose to do so.
Media can and should be a part of your website. However, it should be integrated to support the overall effect of your website, not deter from it. By effectively incorporating non-invasive media content, you will ensure that your visitor’s receive a dynamic boost to their overall experience on your site.
Pic by Boopsiedaisy
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