Infographic is a design that organizes information and data in a visual expression. It may explain a process, compare options, or show a numerical result. Its success comes not only from colorful icons, but also from the reader's correct understanding of the information.
As graphic designer Selçuk Aker, I recommend that in a data-driven visual, first clarify the source and the single main idea to be conveyed. Choosing a chart type without understanding what the data says can produce a flashy but misleading result.
Maintain the context of the data
The source, date of research, group covered, and what is being measured must be known. Respondents to a survey may not be representative of the entire profession. Do not draw firm industry conclusions from a small or spontaneous sample.
An old graphic designer survey can be examined as historical observation; It should not be presented as current data for today's wages or working conditions. If you don't have verified data, you can create a qualitative process diagram instead of making up numbers.
Which question do you answer in one image?
“All the company's achievements” is a very broad start. “Which stage in the delivery process was shortened this year?” A narrower question like this makes chart selection easier. If there is more than one message, divide it into sections or prepare separate images.
You can demonstrate the five-step catalog production process in a sample training exercise. This is not a numerical research result, but an explanatory process diagram. The title and visual language need to maintain this distinction.
Select chart format by data type
The difference in quantity between categories, change over time, and order of steps require different explanations. Choose a format that makes it easier for the reader to compare the same information. Three-dimensional perspective or large decorative icons can make small differences appear larger than they are.
The axis, unit of measure and origin must be clear. If percentages are given, it should be stated what the percentage is. Also explain when rounding affects the total. Instead of making the color change the only carrier of information, add a written label.
Title, description and source should be read together
The title should not exceed the scope of the finding. The description should give the necessary context; The source should be located where the reader can check the data. For the small screen, also share the source line in the accompanying web text rather than making it too small to be readable.
Typography guide helps establish hierarchy, while social media design helps determine the scope of adaptation at different publication rates. Explaining the important information of the visual with real text on the page reduces an expression dependent on the image alone.
Frequently asked questions
Should there be statistics in the infographic?
No. Process, concept or comparison may also be described. Numerical data should not be confused with explanatory schema.
Can I republish the old survey with the new date?
It is not right to change the date of old data. Preserve the source date and state that it does not represent current status.
Can I use the same infographic on every platform?
Content may be shared; however, adaptation may be required for reading size and layout. Sources and explanations must remain readable.
How should you give data to the infographic designer?
For the infographic designer, first explain the question the reader is looking for an answer to, the source of the data, and the units to be compared. Process, rate and geographical distribution do not have to be described in the same visual way. Missing data should not be made up during design.
With Selçuk Aker you can plan information visualization for reports, presentations or digital content at graphic design service. The screen or print size to be used should be determined at the beginning. Presentation designer guide explains how to place data in decision order.
