Infographics do more than just deliver statistics. They provide visual variety on your page. They enhance and supplement your style and voice. And they focus your writing on the discussion of the data, rather than the presentation of the data itself. These benefits make infographics a no brainer for any blog writer.
“Great advice,” you say, “but how do I DO it?” The popularity of online data visualization images has spawned a host of programs designed solely to create infographics, programs geared towards people with little to no graphic design experience. They include templates and customizable design elements that bring your stats to life… all you do is enter the numbers and labels.
There are two ways to go about finding the right infographic creation software, and both are actually pretty fun. The first way is to surf the web, visiting sites you enjoy and taking note of the infographics they use. Find ones that you think would work well on your blog, and then contact the site administrator and ask which program (or designer) they use.
The second way is to just dive right in and start playing with different programs. Search for a free infographic creator online, download it, install it, and start plugging in numbers to see what you can create. Some completely free programs may in fact make infographics with all the functionality you need. But try to explore the program to its limits. As you become more familiar with the software, you may find that you need your graphics to pack a little more punch than free programs can provide. Paid services and software vary in price and functionality, but you have to know what you want before you invest your money.
However you choose to make infographics, it is always worth the time to learn how to do it right, since any visual element will immediately draw the eye. Shoddy, hastily created graphics will instantly lead a reader to question the quality of your blog. But clean, appealing, easy to read graphics will enhance your blog and keep your readers coming back for more.