Information Graphics

Information graphics were looked at in order to identify an area of climate change to present and to research a form of visual communication. Reading up on climate change statistics will help to understand what factors are contributing the most or what areas the everyday person can do to lower their carbon footprint. Furthermore infographics, as a form of graphic design, require the ability to organise large amounts of information into a layout that is easy to understand and at the same time to be aesthetically pleasing enough to hold the readers attention.

Knowledge Is Beautiful - David McCandless

Knowledge is Beautiful is a publication that showcases how infographics can be represented in an engaging manner. 

In this infographic, energy companies are shown to be towards the less ethical side of the graph which is reflective of their environmentally destructive practices. This will also help inform what brands consumers can support in ensuring their products are ethically sourced.

Infographics often use symbols along with colour, to communicate the large amount of information quickly. The clear grid system with ample negative space allow high legibility for the viewer to process the information.

The width and length of arrows in representing energy is proportionally related to its amount. Therefore the wider the arrow, the more energy is being transferred. It can also be used to communicate a hierarchy in the information.

Throughout these examples, the use of copy is limited and is lower on the visual hierarchy. This allows the symbols to be read first, communicating the main information quickly. Copy is either laid out vertically or horizontally, providing an easy reading experience. The infographic should not confuse the reader.

Information is beautiful - David McCandless

This publication provided infographics on more specific effect of climate change. This can help bring exposure to a problem that the public may need more consideration on.

These types of information visualisation represent the different ways information can be visually communicated. However not all can be used for every context. Some are more specific towards communicating a type of information for example arrows would not be effective in representing water levels as compared to energy where it is appropriate in showing direction and quantity.

Infographics

Taking its design further, infographics can also be represented in larger, more interactive forms. The size of a wall infographic for example becomes the focus of the readers attention, stressing that its information is worth reading. It becomes an active reading experience that can better communicate its information onto the reader.