Introducing Instagram Stories

Many of our clients have asked about or considered starting a Snapchat account, but after realizing that it really requires a full-time staff member to maintain an active successful account, they opt out. Well, we have some good news for those of you wanting to add to your social media presence, but not ready for the responsibilities of Snapchat. Earlier this month, Instagram announced its latest feature: Instagram Stories.

Instagram Stories allows users to upload impromptu or behind-the-scenes pictures and videos to their followers that last for 24 hours. After the 24 hour period, the upload will disappear without changing anything on your Instagram profile. The process of uploading your Instagram Stories is almost identical to that of Snapchat, but if you’re unfamiliar with the process don’t worry, we have you covered!

Check out the steps of adding a story to your Instagram account and take advantage of this feature for your business.

Step 1: Click the plus symbol on the top left corner of your Instagram feed. 

Step 2: Hit the circle camera button to take a picture or video. Hold it down for the video option.

Step 3: Be creative. Add a drawing to your upload by using the buttons on the top right corner.

Step 4: Swipe left or right to choose a filter. There are 7 options. 

Step 5: Hit the check mark on the bottom to add the picture or video to your Instagram Story.

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The Death of Flash

There have been warnings from the major browser companies in the past couple of years regarding their decreasing support of Adobe Flash. Google and Firefox have both stated that it would eventually drop all support for Flash, and it looks like Google is making good on that promise.

This week Google announced that the new version of their Chrome browser, Chrome 53, which is set to be released next month will block Flash content by default. Users will still be prompted about enabling Flash support, but this is the first major step toward dropping support altogether. Firefox will soon follow with the same type of Flash blocking.

What does this mean for you as a customer? If you still have a Flash-based website, or if you have any Flash content on your website, your customers will be unable to view it. A Flash-based website is now a virtual dinosaur and it’s time to upgrade.

If you don’t have a Flash-based website, or any type of Flash content on your website, congratulations! This will have no impact on your online presence. If you’re still using Flash, it’s time to update it now to prevent complications in the future. If you are ready to take the steps to update now, call Solutions by Design at 800-888-4084.