microinteraction

A microinteraction is a small, contained moment of interaction within a product, designed to help users complete a single task or understand a single state. It includes not only the action itself but the surrounding feedback that confirms status or guides next steps. Microinteractions often rely on subtle motion, timing, and sensory cues to communicate intent and results.

Core elements of a microinteraction include a trigger, rules or logic, feedback, and states. The trigger starts the interaction (such as a button press or a toggle). The rules determine outcomes (success, error, or progress). Feedback conveys the result (visual change, sound, or haptic response), and states show context over time (idle, active, success, or failure). Types of feedback vary from visual (color, shadow, or motion) to tactile (vibration) and auditory signals.

Common examples include a button ripple on click, inline validation checks, loading indicators, progress bars, subtle hover animations, and onboarding hints. These interactions aim to make the interface feel responsive, guide user actions, and reduce perceived wait times without adding friction.

Design considerations emphasize consistency, performance, and user comfort. Respect user preferences for reduced motion and accessibility needs, ensure keyboard and screen reader compatibility, and avoid distracting or misleading cues. Overuse or inconsistent microinteractions can hinder usability.

Impact and evaluation focus on perceived responsiveness, task success, and user satisfaction. Designers measure timing, reliability, and error rates, often refining microinteractions through user testing to maintain a coherent and accessible experience across devices. Microinteractions are a bridge between macro workflows and day-to-day usability, shaping how users feel about a product.