How do interactive infographics differ from static infographics?
Users can interact with data more readily in interactive infographics, unlike static infographics which present a fixed representation and may be a factor influencing information retention and comprehension of complex data. Interactive infographics cater to various learning approaches by providing users with the choice to explore specific aspects of the information.
Example:
- A simple bar chart might be the entire output of a static infographic, but an interactive one would allow the user to either filter data or show the progression of changes over a certain period.
What tools or software are used to create interactive infographics?
A range of platforms supports non-designers in the development of interactive infographics, including:
- Visme
- Infogram
- Flourish
For more complex animations, try:
- Adobe after effects
- Coding libraries like D3.js
Where are interactive infographics commonly used?
The use of interactive graphs has increased across a range of industries, driven by their capacity to present complex data in an easily digestible format. Journalism, education, and marketing professionals utilize specialized tools and techniques to present complex information in a captivating manner. These sectors profit from the capacity for, more incomprehensible, details and data patterns to be skillfully incorporated and articulated.
Example:
- News media use interactive graphs during elections to display results while educational content providers use them to explain scientific concepts.
What are the best practices for designing effective interactive infographics?
Take a look at these foundational design concepts:
- Be clear: A clear visual hierarchy should assist users step by step.
- Simplify: Provide a clear and concise interface to prevent overwhelming users with excessive options and actions.
- Build the narrative: Make an engaging story that holds the interest of the users.
- Use visual cues: Use interactive markers appropriately.
- Make it mobile-friendly: Ensure responsiveness when the window is resized on all devices.
These design principles may be related to improvements in communication and user experience, but other factors may also play a role. Study your options and, if the design is kept simple and intuitive, users should be able to navigate through the information effortlessly.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when creating interactive infographics?
To keep your interactive infographic up to standard, here are a few mistakes to avoid:
- Overloading the infographic with too much information: Highlight information that is necessary to grasp the message and have maximum impact.
- Using overly complex or confusing interactions: Choose uncomplicated and straightforward interactions to make it easier to provide a service.
- Failing to test on different browsers and devices: Test to ensure all users have the best experience possible.
- Ignoring accessibility guidelines: Create according to the rules so that the infographic can be used by all people, inclusively.
- Creating confusing navigation: Design something easy to use to ensure users enjoy their navigational experience.
What are the accessibility considerations for Interactive Infographics?
Accessibility in the form of alt text, keyboard navigation, and color contrast must always come first for users with special needs. This allows individuals who use assistive technologies, such as screen readers, to access and understand the information presented.
Conclusion
By employing interactivity in infographics, data experiences can be transitioned from static to dynamic. Their success is determined by design features and provided tools, but user-centered approaches such as testing and minimalism can improve understanding. This way users can make sense of complex information and in return increase engagement in the modern-day, visually driven world.
