This is a simple, but intriguing thought.
I have to admit that before this weeks lecture, I wasn't completely sure what Interactivity was.
There are definitions:
"the set of processes, dialogues, and actions through which a human user employs and interacts with a computer"
(Baecker & Buxton, 1987, p. 40)and...
"allowing or relating to continuous two-way transfer of information between a user and the central point of a communication system, such as a computer or television"
(Dictionary.com)
These definitions are OK. But are they too simple? Surely interactivity is more complex than this. Perhaps an example will help.
These definitions are OK. But are they too simple? Surely interactivity is more complex than this. Perhaps an example will help.
Example 1:
Now YouTube is perhaps the first website you would think of when thinking about interactivity on the web.
YouTube is a platform on which the public can upload, share, rate and comment on each others videos. It is also an avenue for companies to upload material to reach their audience. It is a two-way process - whoever uploads material receives feedback; whether it be comments or video responses. But it is also more than that - they can also give feedback to the feedback, and so on, and so forth.
It is ultimate interactivity.
Example 2:
Coca Cola is one of the world's leading brands; and it puts a lot of effort into being interactive.
- Blogging - Coca Cola Conversations - http://www.coca-colaconversations.com/
- Online Videos - on Coca Cola's website and YouTube - e.g. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Shvwd7VYpE0
- Social Networking - 22,493,093 likes on Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/cocacola
- Virtual Worlds - Virtual Thrist on Second Life - http://www.virtualthrist.com
With each of these platforms, there is an opportunity for the consumers to give feedback to Coca Cola.
These examples have really helped me to get to grips with interactivity. And they have proven to me that interactivity is really an integral part of a successful communications strategy.
Thought i'd already posted this last week! :S oops! Might not get marked for it, but thought i'd put it up anyway.
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