interaktiv

Interaktiv is an adjective used in several European languages, notably German and the Scandinavian languages, to describe systems, media, or experiences that require and respond to user input. In a broad sense, something interaktiv allows the user to influence outcomes rather than passively receive information, emphasizing bidirectional communication between person and system.

In computing and digital media, interaktiv denotes interfaces and content designed for user participation, immediate feedback, and control over the flow of a service or narrative. The term reflects the aim of moving beyond passive consumption to active engagement, often through inputs such as clicks, touches, or gestures and corresponding system responses.

Applications include interactive websites and applications, educational software, simulations and training tools, video games, and interactive museum installations. In education and business, interaktiv approaches support exploration, experimentation, and personalized pacing, while in arts and storytelling they enable branching narratives and user-driven experiences.

Design considerations for interaktiv experiences include clear input methods, timely and meaningful feedback, appropriate levels of user control, learnability, and accessibility. Effective interaktiv design reduces cognitive load and friction, while poor performance, confusing controls, or unresponsive systems can break the experience.

Terminology varies by language. In English, the closest equivalent is interactive or interactivity; in German and many other languages, interaktiv describes an object or system, while Interaktivität denotes interactivity as a quality. The concept spans human–computer interaction, user experience design, multimedia, and digital culture.