In
computer science,
interactive computing refers to
software which accepts input from humans — for example, data or commands. Interactive software includes most popular programs, such as
word processors or
spreadsheet applications. By comparison, noninteractive programs operate without human contact; examples of these include
compilers and
batch processing applications. If the response is complex enough it is said that the system is conducting social interaction and some systems try to achieve this through the implementation of
social interfaces.