Infographics are ways of getting information across, usually without words. They’re used to convey complex information such as statistical data, assembly instructions or directions on how to use a product.
Video infographics take this a stage further by animating the information, usually with a voiceover.
Infographics for business
Businesses can also use infographics – including video infographics – on their websites to communicate information about products and services. Infographics can help customers choose the right product from a range, or to understand the core benefits of different product types.
Processes can easily be explained using video infographics: for example, the movement of a product through a factory along a production line or a conveyor can be animated and shown from a single viewpoint. In addition, the main benefits of the product that result from the process can be easily illustrated.
Video infographics have three essential requirements:
1) Story
There’s little point in having infographics for the sake of it – they need to convey information, and give people facts that they can use. Producing a storyboard for an infographics project is a good way of making sure that the right story is told.
2) Visual
The visual should communicate the information clearly and concisely: keep it simple and avoid anything that doesn’t add to the story. Colour coding will help – for example, by giving each process a different colour when explaining a production line. And make sure that your branding is emphasised throughout.
3) Information
Before the production starts, list the information you want people to take from the infographics – it should be clear, relevant and appealing. It can include statistics, performance information, timescales, key benefits and so on. If you use a voiceover, keep it simple and to the point.
The most widely used animation software for creating video infographics for websites is Adobe Flash, which offers a variety of visual effects. Although Flash is easy to understand, it needs training and skill to use properly and effectively.
