Infographics can increase share-ability, illustrate difficult concepts, and clarify large amounts of numerical data in a way that is easy to read and understand. However, it is imperative that infographics are created correctly. Poorly executed infographics can be visually overstimulating, time-consuming, and make concepts less clear as well as more difficult to understand. In a worst case scenario, poorly executed infographics can appear more like spam. It is important to find a concept that could be illustrated well with the right infographic, come up with a plan, and iron out the small details to create a successful infographic.
Below are five indispensable tips for creating quality infographics:
1. Keep Infographics Clear and Simple
The first step to keeping an infographic simple is to choose the right concept. Some concepts are better detailed by prose or tables while others thrive off color and images. Choose a concept that an infographic will enhance. The concept should be the core element, and the infographic should make the concept quick and easy to understand. These infographics by Wpromote illustrate good examples behind this theory. All of the infographics shown possess a clear concept that audiences can relate to and find appealing.
2. Remember that Infographics are not Advertisements
It is important to remember that creating an infographic is meant to display information in a clear and easy to understand way. Infographics are not meant to be advertisements that have large company logos and numerous product descriptions. Logos and other graphic advertisements are fine, but they rarely work when mixed with an infographic. Stick with a straight infographic instead of trying to create a hybrid visual.
3. Use Visuals Instead of Prose
Create infographics that illustrate a concept, literally. Writing a few paragraphs can muddle the message. Some concepts are better suited for prose and an image, whereas other concepts are naturally better suited for infographics. Show your audience what you mean.
4. Disseminate Useful Information Instead of Common Knowledge
Some numerical facts can be best described as common knowledge. Not many people are interested in sharing an infographic that illustrates the fact that Christmas falls on December 25th. Find a way to communicate ideas such as holiday shopping in a way that people are not already inundated with. Create a unique slant to promote what point you want to get across.
5. Stick with a Color Scheme and Theme
There is a definite line between engaging content and creative chaos. Select a clean color scheme, ensure all text is easy to read, and all pictures are easy to see. Infographics should be a catchy way to communicate concepts instead of a modern art project. Also, using the color scheme on a company logo can be one clever way to promote brand recognition without making an infographic appear like an advertisement.
Successful Infographic Takeaway Points
One of the biggest infographic mistakes is the failure to have an initial concept that is amenable for an infographic. It is important to start with a quality concept, think of how it can be enhanced by an infographic, and iron out the fine details (e.g. color schemes) later when creating a good infographic that is highly sharable. Different concepts are best communicated via different methods. Make sure initial concepts work for infographics. Instead of trying to make a verbose concept fit into picture form, find the right way to disseminate the information you want to communicate to your target audience.
About the Author
Evan Aoki has a bachelor’s degree in Business Adminstration and is a regular contributor for TheProIntern where he reports on digital marketing, commerce, and media.