Flash

I think Flash journalism is an great asset to the web.  People love to interact with websites. They like having that sense of control over their experience and it makes them feel a part of what's going on, causing them to stay at the site longer.  The key is that the graph creator must design the graphic to make it enhance the user's experience, not detract from it by making it unclear to the point where the user leaves the entire site frustrated.  The user shouldn't have to put forth too much effort.  The instructions should be clearly and concisely included near the graphic.  The user should be able to to easily discern whether he or she needs to move the mouse over the area, click, or what exactly needs to be done to get the information.

There definitely seems to be places where it is appropriate however.  The graphic should have a specific purpose and shouldn't just be included simply because its a cool feature or fun to make. I think they can be very creative, but should only be included if the creator is going to put one hundred percent effort into making it.