(...Don’t worry, this isn’t 1000 words.)

But just in case you are one of the few people who don’t know what infographics are, you need to read and enjoy this 417 word blog. To begin: Information Graphics (or more commonly spoken on the streets: Infographics) are visually graphic representations of information or data.

Why?

Because it is a very affective way to make complex and boring information thrilling for your audiences. The information and data displayed is transformed into the most comprehensible form while at the same time being visually breathtaking.

How do they do it?

Put simply, it is a combination of form and function. form meaning the overall layout and graphic elements chosen for the infographic, based mainly on the subject matter and given information. The most successful infographics I’ve seen present the information in a surprising, unconventional way, yet makes perfect sense.  Also, being able to make boring statistics and complex information easily functional is the main goal of an infographic. An effective infographic expresses its organization through visual structure.

A few examples:

This comparative infographic at first glance it is very clean and comprehendible. Its iconic graphics, clear hierarchy and grouping of information creates a very strong functionality. The dark-bold typography against the soft colored background achieves strong contrasts and readability

This stunning social map of the world shows the connections of Facebook between continents. The brighter the line, the more friend connections between the cities. This is one of the few infographics that is extremely successful without using words. It is clear, especially detailed, and scary accurate. It even embodies the Facebook blue and white found in it’s logo. What started as a massive, chaotic collection of data turned into a surprisingly beautiful map of the world.

This Instructional infographic does a great job of clearly describing where the viewer’s eyes should go as it scrolls down the page.  The zig-zag trail has a nice contrast with the long skinny layout of the infographic. The bright and bold type at the top makes the purpose of the infographic pop for immediate readability. Iconic symbols help with successful functionality, like the ones found in this rock, paper, scissors infographic.

Today people want information fast and easy, that is why infographics are more popular than ever. The best infographics shows the world how information can be spread and understood in a graphic manner. Often more powerful than words alone, infographics utilize visual elements of design to convey meaning and understanding to the viewer in a way that is fast and easy.