Selecting Sound Clips

One of the major benefits of digital sound is its flexibility. Audio processing software such as Steinberg Wavelab makes it easy to edit, modify, loop, and add effects to sounds. You can take a ten-second section from one audio loop, paste it into another, or paste it across multiple tracks, with no more difficulty than editing a Word document. The advanced sound processing tools that are now available, combined with a microphone and your own imagination, allow you to create a huge array of audio clips. If you're pushed for time or need extra inspiration, there are many online resources from which you can download free clips or purchase collections of clips for use in your projects.

The application of sound to your projects should not be taken lightly. You need to pay attention to a number of factors if the effects are to be successful?most notably, timing, volume, and composition. Remember, you're seeking to enhance your visual messages rather than work against them, so your choice of sound is important. A manic techno loop attached to the submit button of a Flash form may well provoke visitors to close the browser. On the other hand, if you give users subtle feedback that the form has been submitted, they'll likely gain confidence in the interface and continue to interact.

As you can see, it's all about context. The appropriate integration of sound into a project can support the efficient communication of the message.