What is an infographic?
Its purpose is simple and clear. It is a way to present information and data through unique visualization – a mixture of images, typographies and stories. Human beings can process and understand better when data are supported by visual graphics.
Why is it popular?
So that viewers can absorb any complex information quickly and easily. And it is truly ‘eye-catching’, compared with charts and graphs, according to Smashing Magazine.
Many companies, of all sizes, use infographics to enhance their brand awareness, inform their customers and optimize their online presence on search engines.
Is it a useful marketing tool?
NeoMam shows a perfect infographic of infographics, highlighting how effective they are in engaging the audience and encouraging ‘social sharing’ by creating a ‘natural link’.
The critical question is, how to master infographics and turn them into a powerful marketing solution?
#1 Good infographics have storylines!
Good books are composed of a beginning, middle and end. The same concept applies to infographics. Good infographics start off by introducing the topic, problem or question, followed by beautifully deployed supporting data, then a conclusion that pulls everything together.
#2 Good use of space
Most successful infographics will be based on the right amount of information, that will make them not too overcrowded. Also, when making an infographic, you will need to consider all digital platforms – tablets and mobile phones.
#3 Let there be a hook!
Also called “A-ha!” factor in every good infographic, which should be the ‘focal point’ of the design that captures the viewers’ attention. The best way is to place it either in the middle or at the end of an infographic.
#4 Use a set colour palette
To put it bluntly, use the colours that go well! The example below shows well-differentiated colour usage. Many inspirational infograpchics use 3 colour pallets, according to Smashing Magazine. The example uses 3 basic colours that are friendly and kind to eyes so that the audience can naturally follow the storyline and process the data. Use of excellent colour structures can immediately establish a nice, stable relationship with the viewers.
#5 Don’t make it content-heavy
Bad infogrpahics can be fatal to your business. Why? – It could ruin your business opportunities by losing your clients’ interests. The infographic below exemplifies how too much text can be misleading and confusing. Despite its important messages, it can easily confuse the audience and reduce their appetite learn more.
#What’s next?
Truly captivating infographics are determined by a good mix of innovation, creativity and data. Once you master the basics, you can take your infographics forward by making it more interactive. The example includes Good and Levi’s infographics on a campaign about water usage. Interactive infographics normally feature video, animations, flash player, etc.
If you know your targeted audience and what you want to communicate but you are struggling with big data, then infographics can be an effective and quick tool to show your expertise/knowledge and attract targeted audience.
Infographics with solid designs can be the key to drive your online traffic.
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