kosketettavuus

Kosketettavuus (Finnish for tangibility or touchability) describes how easily an object or interface can be touched, felt, or manipulated. In physical product design, kosketettavuus encompasses surface texture, edge definition, shape, weight, and rigidity that allow a user to understand and use a product through tactile exploration. Good kosketettavuus enables identification of controls and feedback without relying on sight, improving usability in dim light or for visually impaired users.

In human–computer interaction, the term is used to refer to the tactile affordances and haptic feedback provided by devices. This includes raised buttons, textured surfaces, vibration cues, and other tactile indicators that communicate state or action when a user touches the device. Kosketettavuus is closely related to but distinct from visual accessibility; it complements visual design and can be critical for inclusive design.

Measurement and design guidance emphasize consistent tactile cues, deliberate edge radii, texture contrast, and predictable feedback. Designers consider material properties, manufacturing tolerances, and aging effects, as wear can reduce kosketettavuus over time. In accessibility policies, kosketettavuus is often highlighted as a criterion for making essential controls easily discoverable by touch, supporting independent use of products and environments.

Overall, kosketettavuus is a multidisciplinary concept spanning ergonomics, industrial design, and accessibility, centered on enabling reliable, non-visual interaction through touch.