8 Types of Infographics and When to Use Them

You’ll discover as you create infographics that there are different types to convey certain kinds of data or information.

For instance, process infographics pair well with step-by-step instructions, while a timeline makes historical data stand out.

Knowing the different types can help you use the correct template and share the content easily for your audience to grasp the idea. This article will teach you the different types and when to use them.

Timelines

It is a visually appealing way to present information about a specific period. They can show the history of a company or product, project plan, progress, or process stages.

A timeline infographic is easy to follow and can make complex information more digestible. When deciding whether to use it, consider how much data needs to be conveyed and how much time is available to view the graphic. If you have a lot of information that needs to be presented in a short amount of time, this can be an effective solution.

Processes

It is a powerful tool for visualizing complex information. Breaking down a process into simple steps can help viewers understand how the process works and identify areas where they can make improvements.

A process infographic can be used in various settings, from corporate training materials to scientific research papers. When choosing a design, it is essential to consider the audience and the level of detail required. Simple layouts may use basic shapes and icons, while more complex structures may include charts, graphs, and detailed illustrations.

Informational

It is usually a mix of images, text, and charts to explain a concept or topic. Informational infographics are used to provide facts and data about a subject. They are often used to communicate complex information in a concise and easy-to-understand format.

If you’re going to share a highly technical topic with a group of people unfamiliar with the matter, this is the best format.

When designing, it is vital to ensure that the information is organized logically and that the visuals are clear and concise. The goal is to communicate the information in an informative and visually appealing way.

Maps

They are often used to show geographical data, such as population density or the distribution of a particular disease. You can also use them to illustrate routes, such as a sales territory or a hiking trail.

Additionally, it can show data over time, like the spread of an epidemic or the growth of a city. When creating a map infographic, choosing an appropriate map projection and legend system is crucial to make the data easy to understand. You can also use color and icons to help highlight important data points.

Resume

It is a visual way to present your skills and qualifications. It can highlight your strengths, showcase your work experience, and demonstrate your abilities.

The best resume infographics are creative and engaging and can help you stand out from the competition. When applying for jobs, consider using a resume infographic if you want to present your information in a unique and attention-grabbing way.

Remember that it should be used sparingly, as it can be challenging to read if overloaded with information. Only use it if you’re confident it will showcase your skills in the best possible light.

Interactive

It uses interactive elements to encourage viewers to engage with the content. Unlike a static infographic, which simply presents information visually, an interactive infographic allows viewers to explore the data more deeply. It can make the information more engaging and easy to understand.

They are particularly well suited for complex data sets that would be difficult to understand using only text or charts. Traditional infographic design, motion, and interactive components all come together. This design is frequently used in gamified content and data visualization.

You can also use them to tell a story or present an argument more compellingly. While infographic making for interactive design takes more time and effort to create, the results can be worth the investment.

List

It uses lists, either in bullet form or as numbered items, to present information. You can use them to introduce various details, such as facts, statistics, tips, or even just a series of important points.

They are usually designed to be easy to read and digest, making them ideal for busy readers who want to quickly get the main points from a piece of text. When deciding whether or not to use a list infographic, it’s essential to consider the audience and the type of information being presented.

For instance, it may not be the best option if the information is complex or detailed.

On the other hand, if the goal is simply to highlight a few key points, it can be an effective way to do so.

Flowchart

It is a visual representation of a process or workflow. It can show the steps linearly or the relationships between different phases in a more complex process.

Flowcharts are often used to explain complex processes, such as manufacturing or software development. You can also use them to illustrate simple concepts, such as the steps in a recipe. If you want to show relationships between different stages or if you need to explain a complex process, then a flowchart can be an effective tool.

Learning about the different types can help you use the correct template to present or showcase your information. The suitable template will make your presentation much better, and audiences will find them easy to digest. Venngage is your go-to for creating stunning infographics, newsletters, and more. Sign up and access thousands of templates, from free to business plans.