Computer Book Reviews

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Special Edition Using Macromedia Flash 5 by Darrel Plant and Robert Cleveland
Que, May, 2001.
Trade Paperback, 606 pages.
ISBN: 0789724448
Ordering information:
Amazon.com

The popularity of Flash is undeniable; Macromedia claims there have been over one billion downloads of Flash from its website. But popularity isn't everything -- there are obviously good and bad ways to use Flash -- and plenty of websites overdo it when it comes to Flash designs. There are scores of books about Flash design; some focus on specific Flash designs using screenshots in a step-by-step instructional approach, while other books teach readers how to create "cool" Flash animations. This book offers more of a text-based approach, like a traditional computer reference book. The book provides an introduction to Flash utilities and the Flash authoring environment, instruction on working with Flash animations and vector art. The book also provides detailed coverage of ActionScript, Flash's programming language. A CD-ROM included with book contains Flash demos and source code from the book.

This book provides a comprehensive introduction to Flash, that can both help readers to Flash and teach them how to develop more complex Flash applications. The ActionScript instruction is very helpful for programmers, and coverage includes syntax, functions, objects, scripting buttons, dynamic text, controlling movies with ActionScript, Smart Clips, controlling the player and debugging. Having knowledge of both graphics and programming concepts gives the Flash developer a more well-rounded understanding of Flash design. Although some readers might prefer a Flash book that provides more full-color step-by-step procedures of how to create specific Flash animations, this book should appeal to Flash developers that need more extensive instruction, including coverage of ActionScript.

Surviving Security: How to Integrate People, Process, and Technology by Mandy Andress
Sams, July, 2001.
Trade Paperback, 524 pages.
ISBN: 0672321297
Ordering information:
Amazon.com

Networking and security issues can be very complicated and expensive for a small business. Security is very important, but small businesses have to manage to balance their needs with what they can afford. This book helps readers learn how to determine the risks involved with computer networking and the Internet, and understand the options available to them for securing valuable company information, data and websites. It also explains the costs and complications involved. Some of the security measures covered include encryption, authentication, firewalls, intrusion detection, remote access, host security and server security. The book goes well beyond a basic explanation of these security topics. It also provides chapters covering security maintenance, vulnerability tests, security audits and a chapter about what to do if and when security is breached. Throughout the book, readers are frequently referred to additional resources where they can find more information. The book also offers a companion website where additional information and updates can be found.

Author Mandy Andress is CEO and Founder of ArcSec Technologies, a security consulting firm. She is also Chief Security Officer for Evant, a San Francisco-based software company, and a writer and reviewer for InfoWorld. This is an excellent resource for small business owners and network managers. These days, security is more important than ever, and your company will need security plans, security policies, insurance, hardware and software. This book can help small businesses and system administrators learn what is needed and expected, and help them implement security plans and solutions based on their needs. Highly recommended.

Web Site Design Goodies by Joe Burns, Ph.D..
Que, July, 2001.
Trade Paperback, 379 pages.
ISBN: 0789724855
Ordering information:
Amazon.com

Web Site Design Goodies
by Joe Burns, Ph.D.

Web Site Design Goodies provides simple, easy-to-follow instruction to help readers understand and implement web design concepts. The book also offers advice on how to solve specific web design problems and learn things to avoid, such as using a combination of green and red as colors for text and background. Author and communications professor Joe Burns, Ph.D. explains web design concepts and helps readers solve specific problems, rather than simply providing specific HTML templates for readers to use. After readers have finished the book, they will have some actual knowledge of design and will have acquired skills they can use to solve problems on their own. Burns also explains how content is important, and teaches readers how to use a website to communicate effectively with its users. Critiques of websites designed by amateurs are also offered to help readers learn what works and what does not.

This is not the first time Joe Burns has helped people with web development. He is well-known for his skill at simplifying web design concepts and has authored two books, HTML Goodies and JavaScript Goodies, and also maintains a website at htmlgoodies.com. Once again, Burns provides an excellent collection of valuable tips and examples for readers to learn from when creating a website of their own. Highly recommended for web design novices.

Computer Reviews
Page One | Page Two

Computer Book Reviews

Special Edition Using Macromedia Flash 5 by Darrel Plant and Robert Cleveland

Surviving Security: How to Integrate People, Process, and Technology by Mandy Andress

Web Site Design Goodies by Joe Burns, Ph.D..