Interactivity features on online newspapers: from a facsimile model to a multimedia one.

The purpose of this article is to know the current interactivity options in online newspapers. To do this, we analyze the concept of (structural) interactivity and establish a measuring tool based on some previous methodologies. This model includes a classification of newspapers into stages of development. In this way, we provide a tool, which allows media firms to know the degree of interactivity in newspapers, assessing what dimensions and parameters are being incorporated. It was applied to a sample of 21 online newspapers. Results show poor implementation of participation and customization options. There is a niche to be covered by sections of user-generated content and closer collaboration journalists-citizens. It will require a real adaptation to the new possibilities of interaction with readers at different levels of involvement and participation. The majority of newspapers are classified in a digital stage and some of them are close to the multimedia phase