Storyline 3: Adding Flash Movies

Storyline 3 lets you embed interactive SWF files, also known as Flash movies, to extend the functionality of your e-learning content.

There are two ways to insert SWF files into a course, and each has its own benefits. The method you use depends on whether you want the SWF file to be synchronized with the slide or to play independently of the slide. Here's how to decide:

• If your SWF file is a movie that requires no interaction from learners, insert it as a video. This synchronizes the video with the slide's timeline and allows it to be controlled by the seekbar.
• If your SWF file contains interactive elements, use the method described below. This plays your SWF file independently of the slide so learners can proceed at their own pace.

Adding Flash Movies

To add a Flash file, go to the Insert tab on the ribbon, click the Video drop-down, and choose Flash Movie. Then browse to your SWF file and click Open.

Tip: If your SWF placeholder is hard to see (it could be a white, black, or transparent rectangle in Storyline), you can right-click it, select Set Poster Frame, then browse for an image to use as a placeholder.

Adjusting Flash Movie Properties

To adjust the properties of an embedded SWF file, click its placeholder once, then click the Options tab on the ribbon.

The options for interactive SWF files are the same as those for videos. For details, see Adjusting Video Properties.

Why Can’t I See Flash Movies When I Preview?

Since the Storyline 3 preview feature uses HTML5 content, you won’t be able to see Flash movies during preview. You’ll need to publish your course with Flash output to see them.