How to use an infographic for digital marketing
While working on complex businesses websites - where the message or the process is not easy to explain in words and photos only is when an info-graphic comes in. I have suggested the use of an info-graphic to a few clients after the initial strategy session and once we incorporated one to the website it made a huge difference to the end result.
Nichole Maybury from Maybury Inc has a passion for infographics so I interviewed her to learn more.
What is an infographic?
Most simply, an infographic is a visual representation of information or data. For example, a chart or diagram.
Infographics can be used to:
simplify complex information
make data more meaningful
showcase important information
attract attention
support written material
make boring information interesting!
Information presented visually is quicker to grasp and easier to remember, particularly for visual learners who make up more than half the population.
How can infographics be used?
Infographics can be used in all visual communication channels. They are great for your website, to enhance visual appeal, strengthen your brand and improve communication. They also provide engaging and shareable branded content for social media, such as Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook and LinkedIn. You can use infographics as blog posts or to accompany a blog post or newsletter article.
Infographics provide useful cross-channel content – an infographic from a report can be used on your website, turned into a newsletter article, and posted in your social media.
Use infographics in your marketing to:
explain how something works
show comparisons
display statistical data
illustrate a process
highlight interesting facts
present timelines
communicate theoretical concepts.
What are your tips/things to consider when creating an infographic?
As with any marketing and communication activity, it’s important to think about your audience when creating an infographic. Infographics should be specific, relevant and targeted.
Consider your topic and the best way to present and convey the information. Keep the infographic simple and focused. Don’t get too fancy for the sake of it!
If your infographic is getting too big, complicated and unwieldly, consider breaking it into multiple infographics.
Keep infographics uncluttered and ensure there is a visual flow. Allow breathing space for information, particularly for more complex graphics.
It can be helpful to sketch your infographic idea before you create it or to send it to your designer. That way you can ensure it will communicate the concept effectively (your designer can also help with this).
How are infographics created?
Infographics can be created using graphic design software or apps. There are a range of free or low-cost apps available. However, depending on the infographic complexity, options for branding your infographics and how savvy you are at using such apps, it may be better (more time and cost-effective!) to engage a professional graphic designer.
A graphic designer is a visual communicator, so they can help you to communicate your idea more effectively and creatively. They are also a whiz on design software, and can customise the design to align with your brand.
Tell me about your business and how can you help?
I am a graphic designer and communication specialist. My business is Maybury Ink. and I help businesses to strengthen their branding, marketing and communication.
I like to say that working with me is like having your own, all-in-one marketing and communication department, as I provide complementary services including logo design and branding, graphic design, writing and editing, strategy and planning.
And I love creating infographics! Samples of some infographics I’ve created accompany this post.
You can find out more about me and my work at mayburyink.com.au.
