overwhelming animated graphics. However, its been shown in many user interface tests that overwhelming graphics can have a negative effect on the user experience.   With that said, there are appropriate times to use Flash graphics. For instance, if you have a process that you want to explain to a visitor that may be a bit complex, you might consider using Flash to create a presentation.   Or if you want to demo your product without giving your visitor the actual product, why not create a Flash demo? Go to www.teletechplus.com to see a good use of Flash as a demo. Try to avoid using Flash splash pages. Very few people will wait to watch the Flash intro splash presentation. The use of blinking graphics (commonly called "GIF animations") can have its place as well. In fact, as I mentioned above, if you want your visitor to do something first you might want to apply a subtle blinking arrow pointing to where you want your visitor to go first.   Using overwhelming photos can also be distracting. However, one of the best uses of a large photo I have ever seen on a site is found at www.harlydavidson.com. Go check it outyoull feel as though youre really on the open road, which is what the people at Harley Davidson want you to experience when you come to their site. Mistake # 8 - Only Boring Specs And Data To Describe Your Product Or Service   Perhaps the number one sin in marketing is being boring. You cant be boring and expect to get peoples attention - let alone hold their attention for any length of time. I consult to the spa and pool industry and they are notorious for presenting their products in a boring way.   For example, go to www.spa4u.com and click into "System Series" under the "Spa Galleries" heading. Now click on the "Lounger" spa. What do you see? Boring specifications and data. Not one bit of emotional copy. Who cares about gate valves, weir gates, and hose bibs? Although data and specs should be accessible through a link, a benefit-laden, USP-driven sales letter should accompany this product.   Now go to www.ThinkGeek.com and notice that each item has a catchy headline and mini-sales letter. If you sell a product or service, study the ThinkGeek.com site.   NOTE: You not only should be providing sales copy for each of your products but you should be offering up-sell items as well. Visit www.sharperimage.com and notice that with each product they include an "Add this Product to Basket" up-sell option.   Here are several additional tips for livening up your web copy that describes your product or service: