ActionScript revolutionises web page movement

When websites began, they contained very little movement, if any at all. Now, with a program called ActionScript, programmers and web designers are able to add an unprecedented amount of movement via animation.

ActionScript is a scripting language based on ECMAScript. It is used primarily for the development of websites and software using the Adobe Flash Player platform (in the form of SWF files embedded into web pages), but is also used in some database applications (such as Alpha Five), and in basic robotics, as with the Make Controller Kit.

Originally developed by Macromedia, the language is now owned by Adobe (which acquired Macromedia in 2005). ActionScript was initially designed for controlling simple 2D vector animations made in Adobe Flash (formerly Macromedia Flash). Later versions added functionality allowing for the creation of web-based games and rich Internet applications with streaming media (such as video and audio).

Some websites contain sections of front-end ActionScript, while others choose to develop their entire website using the technology. The aim is to attract a visitor's attention with the increased movement, and also to develop an interactivity.

The disadvantage is, as with other Flash files, it s made up of images rather than text, hence making it more difficult for Google and other search engines to navigate the content within.