Motion Infographics – The Next Step in Data Visualization
It’s no secret that I’m a bit obsessed with infographics. When it comes to data visualization and visual communication design, I can be geekier than a Star Wars fan at a midnight screening of The Force Awakens.
At the moment I’m feeling nerdier than ever because something’s happening in the data world that I’m really excited about: motion infographics.
Maybe you’re wondering why I’m so excited. After all, they’ve been around for a good few years now. But it’s only now that brands are starting to realise their value.
The big brands know that interactive content is the way forward. Take Snapchat for instance: it’s super-dynamic and super-popular. The company is reportedly valued at $16bn. That’s much less than Facebook ($245bn) or even Instagram ($33bn). But the company has grown enormously in the three years since Facebook reportedly offered to buy the company for $3bn.
As a user, I can see the power and potential the app has. When I want to read the news or get a glimpse of the day’s events, I click on CNN’s snapchat. It’s much better than visiting their app. Why? It’s simply more engaging.
Now us infographic creators are using the same idea in data visualization. Infographics are designed to share complicated data in a visual way, and interactive, animated and video infographics makes information more dynamic and even easier to understand. When movement is used properly in communication, your data can become much more powerful.
BUT…
If you don’t get animation or movement right, it can make the infographic seem very gimmicky. People using Prezi poorly – I’m looking at you.
This mistake is easy to avoid though, if you know when and what type of motion infographic to use. Here’s how I use the different types:
INTERACTIVE INFOGRAPHICS
What are they? Websites or embedded tools that allow the user to click or scroll through the information to get more of an in-depth view.
Perfect for: Giving the audience a personalized experience.
Good examples: People Movin and Poppy Field
ANIMATED INFOGRAPHICS
What are they? Usually gifs where part of the design is moving. The text normally remains static.
Perfect for: Featuring motion and progression.
Good examples: How Speakers Make Sound and How a Car Engine Works
VIDEO INFOGRAPHICS
What are they? These are videos but done in an infographic style.
Perfect for: Easy sharing – videos can be embedded just about everywhere.
Good examples: Love Around the World and The Girl Effect
Still not convinced motion infographics are the future? Read how they are changing how we see the world here.