I want to create an element on my web site to inform users of new content, but I don't want it to be annoying

Question

I don't want to use a pop-up window because those are usually annoying; besides it would be blocked by most users anyways.

I don't want to use a cheesy gimmick like flashing or scrolling text (although a ticker type element might be worth considering).

And I don't like flash elements that cover the page your viewing.

Does anyone have any ideas of what would be a good method of creating such an alert without being obnoxious or annoying?

FWIW, this is not a site where people log-in, but I probably have several visitors each week.

Answer 1

I would suggest you do something like a div which will slide up and inform the user of the current updates. Something like how MSN Messenger notifies you of a new contact logging in. Another suggestion would be a fading out div, which the user is shown the updates for a small amount of time, and then it fades away on its own. I have done this before with the help of DHTML, it is not too hard. See the link below for more help.