Convert avi to swf

I'm having a huge headache trying to convert an avi file to a swf. Sounds 
basic, I know...

 With Flash 8, I imported my avi file, then published it as a swf. I can watch 
the newly-converted .swf file on my computer, but when I send this swf file to 
another computer and try to watch it there, all that will show up is a white 
screen - no video.

 I'm trying to import this swf file into Dialogue (an e-learning presentation 
program). It recognizes that it is in fact a swf, but it shows nothing but a 
white screen when I go to preview it through Dialogue.

 My problem is this: I have an avi file and it needs to be in a stand-alone swf

format. I need to be able to send this swf video to another person so that they

can view it.

 Any help would be greatly appreciated.