Programmwahl

Programmwahl (from Programm and Wahl) is a German term describing the process of choosing between different programs, plans, or policy proposals. In everyday usage it can refer to selecting television, radio, or streaming programs; in political contexts it denotes the decision to support parties or candidates based on their programmes.

In broadcasting and digital media, Programmwahl describes user-driven selection of content, mediated by interfaces, recommendations, and schedules. It encompasses navigation, search, channel surfing, and playlist creation, as well as system-level program scheduling by broadcasters.

In political science, Programmwahl is the act of voters comparing party programs (Wahlprogramme) and policy positions to decide whom to vote for. Researchers examine how information, issue framing, credibility, and feasibility influence alignment with a program and voting choices.

Beyond media and politics, the term is used in software procurement and event planning to denote choosing among software programs or scheduled activities based on requirements, costs, compatibility, and expected benefits.