Infographics are graphical representations of information that engage the audience and help them to understand complex concepts. They go beyond a simple diagram to present a narrative or process.
Infographics may be composed of text, graphs, tables, maps, illustrations, photographs or other graphic elements. They may focus on a single message or contain a sequence of messages to tell a more complex story.
Infographics use the same techniques as diagrams, but, because they are often intended for a wider audience or as a standalone item, they are often more highly ‘designed’. This might involve incorporating an organisation’s branding elements, coloured backgrounds, illustrative styling, visual navigation elements, and simple graphics such as pictograms, symbols or icons.
Remember to consider image accessibility guidance when using and creating infographics.
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Tip
To create effective infographics
- Decide on 1 clear message for the infographic. You should be able to sum this up in 1 sentence.
- Cut out non-essential details. An infographic does not have to exactly mirror real life or explain everything.
- Test the infographic with expert and non-expert audiences. The expert audience can identify what’s wrong or missing; the non-expert audience can tell you if it’s understandable.