With attention spans shrinking and the online content arena becoming more and more competitive by the minute, interactive graphic design is gold. 

Not only does it encourage audience engagement, but it also builds brand trust and loyalty. Data from Linearity illustrates why interactive design is the present and future of branding: 

  • 85% of B2B marketers either plan to use or are using interactive graphics as part of their strategy.
  • 93% of marketers say interactive content is more effective in educating buyers than static content.
  • Buyers spend around 13 minutes engaging with interactive content, compared to the 8.5 minutes on static content.

Interactive Graphic Design Statistics (Data source – Linearity)

In this blog, we’ll tackle:

Let’s dive right in!

What is Interactive Graphic Design?

It’s a question often asked by those who are unfamiliar: What do you mean by interactive design?

Interactive graphic design pertains to creating visual elements that respond to user actions. As a result, it enables a two-way interaction between the user and the content.

Unlike static designs, it involves elements like:

  • Animations
  • Clickable graphics and custom infographics
  • Dynamic layouts that change based on user input

Imagine a static data image that springs to life as a GIF when clicked, revealing deeper insights that guide the user through complex info:

GIFs licensed by Penji

It goes without saying that these types of graphics capture attention and enhance the user experience. After all, the interaction factor can add more value to the content. That said, it’s a solid tool to include in any creative strategy.

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What are the Characteristics of Interactive Design?

Here are the main factors that make a design interactive:

Responsiveness to User Actions

Firs tof all, this type of graphic design responds to user inputs like clicks, swipes, or hovers. As a result, it transforms the website visit into something that feels alive and intuitive.

For instance, hovering over a section could reveal hidden content, creating a more active experience.

Dynamic and Animated Elements

In addition, because people can interact with them, these graphics can present data more effectively. This is why brands use this type of content — after all, research reveals that it gets 52.6% higher engagement rates than static content.

Repurposing Content with Interactivity

One of the most significant benefits of this type of design is its flexibility. According to data cited by Forbes, 68% of marketers believe that interactive features helps breathe new life into existing content. These content types include blogs and articles, which can be turned into engaging, fresh pieces.

Benefits of Interactive Graphic Design (Data source – Forbes)

Interactive Graphic Design Examples

Here’s another commonly asked question to those new to the concept: What is an example of interactive design?

Let’s take a look at a few examples that show how interactive graphics make an impact.

1. World’s Biggest Data Breaches & Hacks (Information is Beautiful)

This infographic shows the largest data breaches, allowing users to explore each incident in detail. When a user hovers over each bubble, they can see specific info about the breach. 

Screenshot from Information is Beautiful

A section below the main graphic, meanwhile, features data breaches by data sensitivity:

Screenshot from Information is Beautiful  

The design uses elements that respond to user inputs. As a result, the data becomes easy to digest. Also, it helps users quickly grasp the scale and impact of each breach.

2. 270toWin – 2024 Presidential Election Interactive Map

This interactive map allowed users to simulate and predict the outcomes of the 2024 U.S. presidential elections. During its run, users could click on states to assign electoral votes to the candidate they support. After that, they could instantly see how changes affect the count. 

 

Graphic embedded from 270toWin

The map is color-coded and updated in real-time before the elections. As a result, it offered an engaging way to explore various electoral scenarios.

3. Hungry Tech Giants: 15 Years of Acquisitions (Simply Business)

This web page shows the acquisition strategies of major tech brands over a 15-year span. As seen in the image below, users can explore data points per company and sector. 

Screenshot from Simply Business

The design features elements that respond to user clicks to reveal detailed data tables. Added to that, it also has filter options to compare categories.

4. A Visual Introduction to Machine Learning (R2D3)

This graphic by R2D3 offers an engaging introduction to machine learning concepts.

Screenshot from R2D3

As users scroll through the page, moving elements show how decision trees function. That said, the design allows users to explore concepts and immerses users in the learning process.

Screenshot from R2D3

5. Gay Rights in the US, State by State (The Guardian)

This example provides an overview of gay rights across the US. For one, it details the legal status of various issues. These data include marriage, adoption, and discrimination on a state-by-state basis.

Screenshot from The Guardian

6. Diversity in Tech (Information is Beautiful)

Another example shows the diversity stats of major tech brands. For instance, users can explore data points that reveal the breakdown of workers by gender and ethnicity.

Screenshot from Information is Beautiful

As seen in the image, the design features charts that respond to user actions. 

Tips for Creating Effective Interactive Graphic Designs

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when creating interactive graphic designs:

  • Prioritize User Experience (UX): Always put the user first. To do so, ensure that your interactive elements enhance the overall experience and aren’t merely flashy visuals.
  • Use Moving Visuals with a Purpose: Alongside UX, make sure that all moving visuals guide users through a journey. That said, don’t overload your design with too many moving parts, which can overwhelm users.
  • Keep It Mobile-Friendly: Recent data says half of internet users use mobile devices as opposed to desktop. With that number in mind, ensure that your designs work seamlessly across various screen sizes.
  • Outsource to Experts: Don’t have the time or resources to create stunning interactive graphics? Subscribe to Penji’s unlimited graphic design service to bring your vision to life without the hassle. 

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