Interactive publications, from flat documents to digital experiences
Today, when readers’ attention is an increasingly scarce resource, publications can no longer remain static documents. An interactive PDF represents a natural evolution: it is no longer about digital pages that are only read, but about materials that invite users to explore, navigate, and discover.
An interactive PDF can be defined as a digital document that integrates elements allowing the user to interact directly with the information. Unlike a conventional PDF —which resembles a simple digital photocopy— this type of publication is closer to a web page, offering resources that make the reading experience more intuitive.
The possibilities are broad and adaptable to each context. It is possible to include internal and external hyperlinks, which allow readers to jump between sections or access related websites; clickable indexes, which make it easier to move through chapters; navigation buttons, guiding users toward key content; and even multimedia elements, such as videos or audio files that enrich the message. Added to this are fillable forms, which transform a document into an active tool for collecting information, as well as other resources like pop-ups or tooltips.
Organizations adopting this format do so with a clear goal, to provide a more valuable experience. Well-known examples include the IKEA interactive catalogs, which integrate direct links to products and multimedia galleries, or the National Geographic digital magazines, which combine text with full-screen images and explanatory videos. Similarly, annual reports from financial institutions and international NGOs incorporate internal navigation menus, dynamic graphics, and direct access to additional online resources.
The impact of these publications is evident. They not only facilitate access to information but also create a perception of modernity, closeness, and transparency. For organizations, they represent a strategic tool that amplifies the reach of their messages and multiplies the ways they can connect with their audience.
That said, implementation requires balance. An interactive publication must remain clear and functional. To achieve this, it is advisable to:
• Avoid overloading elements, prioritizing simplicity.
• Ensure compatibility across different PDF viewers.
• Keep design at the service of the reading experience, without compromising legibility.
Interactive publications are a bridge between the editorial and the digital world. More than just a file, they become a dynamic communication experience, capable of transforming the way people engage with information.
