Did you know that 90% of information transmitted by your brain is visual and processed more effectively when it is accompanied by images? This means that when you use simple, image-based documentation to support your message, your audience can grasp the information you are communicating much better and faster.
An infographic is basically information displayed in a graphic format. It is a representation of data, knowledge or a process in a graphically designed way to make the information understandable at a glance. It is where design and data meet to tell a story that is both engaging and easy to digest. With plain text messages, the same results are nearly impossible to achieve.
Let us take a look at the benefits of infographics and the use thereof.
Memorable
On a daily basis, we all attempt to make sense of the overload of content we see. Infographics are very effective because of the visual component. People tend to remember information that they have seen more so than what they have read.
Eye catching
Infographics usually combine images, colours and content that naturally is more eye-catching than printed words in black on white.
Faster to comprehend
Due to the concise nature of infographics it allows you to scan it quickly. Most people have increasingly shorter attention spans and less time to waste. Therefore, they have a habit of only scanning material as opposed to actually reading it. Visuals are also processed faster than text alone.
Usable in any format
Infographs can be used in any format for digital and print media purposes. If you execute it with both design and marketing in mind it becomes a very powerful tool.
Sharable
Infographics are extremely shareable on the internet and social networks. It has a better chance of increasing your reach or becoming viral compared to ordinary text. More people will connect with you and search engines will rank you higher and more people will pay attention.
Drive traffic
Infographics have a higher engagement and will drive people to the website since they are more likely to “share” and “click” on it. This can help with Google’s “Page Rank” algorithm, which is important for SEO.
Help you stand out
Within the last decade infographics have become an increasing trend. We are all bombarded with information in the digital age where 1.5 billion pieces of content, 140 million tweets, and 2 million videos are created on a daily basis. Therefore, using a simple visual aid like an infographic can make you stand out.
Personal branding
The content that you post in your infographics will clearly demonstrate your knowledge and expertise. Infographics are great tools to boost your professional reputation. Thoughtful infographics will keep your audience engaged, reinforce your professionalism, and make a lasting impression.
Education
The process of creating infographics is sometimes referred to as data visualisation and can be used as a tool to educate and inform your clients in a much easier way to combat information overload. It allows your audience to quickly and easily grasp what you want to communicate.
Content marketing
Infographics are an extremely effective approach to getting your content out there. All of us enjoy information that teaches us something. If an infographic has exciting images combined with good content it will be even easier to let other people know about it.
Consultation
Infographics can be used during consultation as a tool to explain a process or give an instruction to a client. It will convert those excessively complex procedural documents or text-heavy brochures into user-friendly marketing material that will be remembered.
“A picture speaks a thousand words” is a popular saying for a good reason! Infographics are one of the non-negotiables that you should have in your marketing toolkit.
This article is a general information sheet and should not be used or relied on as professional advice. No liability can be accepted for any errors or omissions nor for any loss or damage arising from reliance upon any information herein.