We asked the Visual.ly chief for a few tips on how to make data pop.<\/p>\n
1. Apply a journalist\u2019s code of ethics<\/p>\n
An infographic starts with a great data set. Even if you\u2019re not a journalist \u2014 but an advertiser or independent contractor, say \u2014 you need to represent the data ethically in order to preserve your credibility with your audience. Don\u2019t source from blogs. Don\u2019t source from Wikipedia. Don\u2019t misrepresent your data with images.<\/p>\n
2. Find the story in the data<\/p>\n
There\u2019s a popular misconception that creating a great infographic just requires hiring a great graphic designer. But even the best designer can only do so much with poor material. Mapping out the key points in your narrative should be the first order of business. \u201cThe most accessible graphics we\u2019ve ever done are the ones that tell a story. It should have an arc, a climax and a conclusion,\u201d Langille says. When you find a great data set, mock up your visualization first and figure out what you want to say, before contacting a designer.<\/p>\n
3. Make it mobile and personal<\/p>\n
As the media becomes more sophisticated, designers are developing non-static infographics. An interactive infographic might seem pretty \u201csexy,\u201d Langille says, but it\u2019s much less shareable. A video infographic, on the other hand, is both interactive and easy to port from site to site. Another way to involve readers is to create a graphic that allows them to input and share their own information.<\/p>\n
4. Don\u2019t let the code out<\/p>\n
One of the easiest ways to protect your work is to share it on a community site. Visual.ly offers Creative Commons licensing to users who upload a graphic to the site. When visitors who want to use the graphic grab embed code from the site, the embedded image automatically links back to its creator. Langille suggests adding branding to the bottom of your work and never releasing the actual source file \u2014 only the PNG, JPEG, or PDF. And what if your work goes viral without proper credit? For god\u2019s sake, don\u2019t be a pain and demand that the thieves take it down. \u201cIt\u2019s better to let it go and ask for a link back and credits on the graphics,\u201d Langille said.<\/p>\n
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