Connectedness
How deeply does the connection resonate?
Definition
"Depth of connections in networked environments, reflecting the experiential and emotional quality of being connected across systems." (Kim 2026)
In plain terms
Connectedness is the depth of a connection – the emotions, cognitions, and motivations it carries, and whether people's behavior aligns with them, from acting to sharing and advocating. In a networked world, that depth is not only personal. It is shaped and reinforced through interactions with other people and with technologies.
Why it matters
Connectedness is related to customer engagement, but it looks beyond a single interaction. It asks how resonance builds and is sustained across platforms, devices, and social networks – including the way one person's participation ripples outward as others see it and respond. A connection can be relevant and still stay shallow. Depth is what gives a relationship weight over time.
Questions to ask
- Do our connections leave people feeling something, or only informed?
- Is each interaction building on the last, or starting over?
- Where do people's experiences with us get reinforced by others?
How it connects
Relevant encounters (Connexity) can deepen Connectedness, and deeper Connectedness can make future encounters more welcome. Together with Connectance, it shapes how well the whole system performs (Connexus).
See it in practice
Understanding the World Through Connection – Duolingo's streaks
Source
Kim (2026), International Journal of Advertising. See the Research Foundation.