| Definition: | Rich media refers to media on the web that offers an enhanced, interactive experience. VRML for 3 D, Macromedia Flash and Shockwave would be good examples of languages for rich media. The Rich Media SIG is a good resource for emerging technologies. Rich media is often used for banner advertisements, for homepage's and for e-mail communications. It is important, however, for designers considering the use of rich media, to understand the audience they are designing for, and make sure the audience has access to the information being conveyed via the rich media (browsers do not have many rich media technologies built into their viewing capabilities, therefore plug-ins are required). Many successful e-commerce web-sites, like Amazon.com, avoid rich media, and use a lowest common denominator design strategy.
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