What Are Infographics?

Infographics, or information graphics, are graphics used to communicate and visualize data. They can be used to visualize a story, educate an audience, or build brand awareness.

Infographics break down complicated facts; they visualize statistics, making complex information easy to understand. They are incredibly visual, making it easy for viewers to understand and absorb information they would normally pass over.

Though they have been used for many years, with the recent boom of social media, the Internet has seen a large increase in infographics on platforms like Facebook and Twitter.  Their topics vary from popular coffee flavors to statistics about crime and everything in between.

Traditionally, magazines and newspapers featured infographics to show maps, graphs of statistics, and even weather predictions. Modern maps are a form of infographics, especially those used for transit systems. An information designer must strategically design these maps to organize the complex system of multiples routes, stops, and landmarks.

So, why are they so popular?

According to Graphs.net, research shows that searches for Infographics have increased by a stunning 800% between 2010 and 2012.

90% of information transmitted to the brain is visual. This statistic explains why infographics are so effective.

Many businesses now use infographics as a tool to draw in and communicate with potential consumers. They have become a marketing tool for companies, in the hopes that they will boost their online presence and reputation. They can be used to build brand awareness and some would even argue that a successful infographic would get more attention than a traditional online marketing campaign.

What do you need to create an infographic?

Creating an infographic is not as easy as it sounds. Follow these steps below:

Step 1. Pick a Topic

Choose something that you are knowledgeable about, you can highlight the issues your customers face and help show how your services will help them.

Step 2. Compose the Facts

Spend time on researching and organizing the data.

Step 3. Hire a Designer to Create Your Infographic

You want a professional design and layout, a quality infographic ranges from $1000 and up.

Step 4. Post Your Infographic Online

Spread the word! Tweet, post, blog share, etc.

-Stay Creative