Lecture Notes: Types of Infographics

Introduction

• Speaker: Peyman
• Series on creating infographics
• Part 1: Discussed what makes a good infographic
• Part 2: Focus on types of infographics
• Total Types: 13

Categorization of Information

• Information typically categorized in five ways:
  • Chronologically
  • Alphabetically
  • Geographically
  • Categorically
  • Hierarchically

Types of Infographics

1. Mix Charts

• Combines different types of charts and graphs
• Best for displaying numerous stats, facts, and figures
• Example: Infographic on Kobe Bryant using bar chart, large stats, radar charts

2. Informational List

• Mainly text-driven
• Message conveyed through words, not visuals
• Not very visual, opposite of infographic ideals

3. Timeline

• Shows evolution over time
• Tells a story chronologically
• Common in resumes, startup "About Us" pages
• Example: Evolution of classic cars on screen

4. How-To

• Shows steps or phases in a process
• Common format
• Example: Steps to achieve a task or process

5. Process

• Also known as flowchart or decision tree
• Shows a sequence or process
• Example: Coffee brewing process

6. Comparison

• Compares two products, people, or ideas
• Uses visual differences (e.g., colors) to distinguish between compared items
• Example: Comparison of Netflix and Red Fox

7. Location

• Utilizes maps or regions
• Combines icons and color codes for regional/global stats
• Example: Stats by country or region like GDP

8. Photographic

• Combines images with graphical elements
• Photograph is focal point, supported by simple lines, icons

9. Hierarchical

• Information presented in levels
• Commonly pyramids
• Can also be other shapes

10. Single Chart

• Uses a single type of chart as focal point
• Example: Heights of buildings with One World Trade Center

11. Visualizing Numbers

• Adds visual interest to stats
• Uses size and color to organize figures
• Example: Heathrow Airport stats

12. Anatomical

• Uses visual metaphors
• Often uses human body or product components
• Details stats for different parts/areas

13. Visual Resume

• A growing trend
• Transforms traditional text-based resumes into visual formats

Conclusion

• 13 types of infographics covered
• Each type fits different subject needs
• Upcoming episodes will explore more on presenting information effectively
• Choose the type that best fits the information and audience needs