How Your Small Business Can Benefit by Employing Infographics

by | Mar 26, 2013

So why use infographics? Infographics have taken our world by storm, as we are increasingly more inclined these days to process data visually than through the written word. Neuroscience explains why: according to research from 3M (maker of Post-its, among other things), 90% of data transmitted to the brain is visual, and visuals are processed 60,000X faster in the brain than text! So some smart person somewhere invented infographics (probably Al Gore) to help us tell our stories. Now, smart businesses are using these visually pleasing, data-rich illustrations to educate and engage new customers. Here’s a nice example of how one online marketer is utilizing infographics to build his business. There are many great reasons why you should consider using infographics in your business. Here’s a few:

  • They are easily scanned and can be visually impressive, features that grab the attention of web browsers today
  • They are excellent vehicles for showing facts easily and in a neat, concentrated fashion.
  • They help establish you as an authority on the topic
  • They can go viral, which can result in traffic and search engine ranking benefits
  • As an image, they’re easily shared, and can make the rounds at many image sharing sites (as outlined by social media expert Dan Zarrella, images have more shares and likes on Facebook than every other post type—even video)

And as an example of some of the power of infographics, what better way than—you guessed it—check out this infographic from WebmarketingGroup.co.uk.

How to create your own infographics

If you would like to build your own infographics, you can find sites and tools that enable you to jump in and create breathtaking infographics. At the basic level you can create them in PowerPoint, which isn’t as tough as you may think. If you’re wanting a little more advanced or polished option, you should check into a tool like Visual.ly, where you can transform existing templates to your needs, or perhaps make use of a service like PiktoChart or Infogram.

What if you haven’t a design gene in you?

Simply outsource them. Sometimes we don’t have the time, skills or patience to get the job done, particularly if you’ve never really opened Photoshop before. No worries, as there are top-notch designers willing to make your infographics for you,and for a reasonable cost. A few of these places include 99Designs, Elance, Odesk, Fiverr, and Freelancer.com.

Make sure to ask for samples of their work, set clear boundaries and expectations, and communicate clearly your vision, so there aren’t any surprises come delivery time!