Interactive design refers to the forming of interactive products and services with a set priority on their use. It can also be interpreted as a design principle, distinguished by its focus one the digital design materials: software, electronics and telecommunications. Interactive design moves from a static design type, such as print mediums and static web pages to design where an audience takes part in the medium.

Many products that require users to interact with them carry out their tasks, eg: buying a ticket online, photocopying an article, have not necessarily been designed with the users in mind. Usually, they have been arranged as systems to perform set tasks. While they may work effectively from an engineering perspective, it is often the cost of how the system will be used by real people. A main aim of interactive design is to address this concern by bringing usability into the design process. Basically, it is about developing interactive products that are easy, effective and enjoyable to use – from the user’s perspective.

Interactive design can also be included in the form of:

• Flash Games and Animation
  Rio Tinto Big Science Online. This animation teaches and encourages young Australians to explore and engage in science education.
  www.asi.edu.au/www/index.cfm?itemid=189

• Flash Website Design
  Hitachi appliances website. Allows users to find out more information about their products and their brand
  www.hitachi.com.au

• Interactive Application Design
  http://www.blackboard.com/
  allows the user to interact with a learning platform for education tasks, such as chat rooms, etc.

References:

Friday Media, "Interactive Design" 13 March 2009
http://www.fridaymedia.com.au/index.php/interactive-design