In today’s information-rich world, infographics are a powerful tool for transforming complex data into engaging visuals that resonate with diverse audiences, making data more accessible. In this blog, Huw Eifion Evans, Healthy School Co-ordinator for Conwy, shares his Top Ten Tips for using infographics to bring insights from The School Health Research Network (SHRN) data to life.
Whether you’re aiming to communicate key findings with learners, staff, parents/carers or school governors, these tips can help ensure your SHRN data is both impactful and easy to understand.
Engage & Inform: 10 Tips for Dynamic SHRN Infographics
1. Less But Better
Define a clear objective for your infographic and limit your content to this focus. While it’s tempting to add more colours, text, and details, too much information can clutter the design and obscure your core message.
2. Create a Clear and Consistent Layout
Organise information logically, dividing data into sections to avoid overwhelming viewers. A grid or column-based structure can keep the design easy to navigate.
3. Embrace Visual Hierarchy
Use contrasting fonts, colours, and sizes to draw attention to the most important parts of the infographic. Bold percentages, icons, or highlighted figures help emphasise key findings.
4. Select the Relevant Data
Choose data points that will resonate with your audience. For example, if you’re addressing mental health outcomes, highlight key statistics that align with this topic.
5. Prioritise Accessible Colours and Fonts
Ensure your infographic is inclusive by selecting readable fonts and high-contrast colours. This improves accessibility for individuals with visual impairments and makes the design appealing for all viewers. Aim for a font size that is easily readable, even on smaller screens.
6. Use Icons and Images Effectively
Incorporate icons, illustrations, or simple graphics to represent data categories. Visuals can make content more relatable and memorable, especially for younger audiences who may prefer visuals over text-heavy information. For example, using a heart icon for health-related data makes the information more relatable.
7. Be Concise with Text
Limit text to short descriptions or phrases to keep the focus on visuals. Use bullet points or short phrases instead of long paragraphs. This keeps the focus on visuals and makes the information easier to digest. Aim for clarity in your descriptions. Use active voice and engaging language to maintain interest. Phrasing like “Discover how…” or “Learn why…” can draw your readers in.
8. Experiment with Graphs and Charts
Consider different chart styles – bar charts, pie charts, or graphs – based on the data type. Testing various formats will best convey your data’s story.
9. Include a Clear Call to Action
Guide viewers on what they can do with the information. Whether it’s joining a discussion, supporting a school initiative, or reflecting on the findings, a call to action can make your data more actionable.
10. Invite Feedback and Encourage Sharing
Invite your audience to engage with and share the infographic, welcoming their feedback. This can lead to fresh insights and strengthen their connection to the data and school goals.Promote SHRN data sharing by including social media buttons or QR codes that make it easy for viewers to share the infographic with their networks. Encouraging sharing can amplify your reach and impact.
Final Thoughts
By following these tips, SHRN data can be further transformed into valuable insights that support health and well-being across school communities and wider audiences. Infographics are more than just visual representations of SHRN data; they are powerful storytelling tools that can bridge the gap between complex information and public understanding. As you embark on your infographic creation journey, remember to keep your audience at the forefront of your design decisions.
Have you created infographics for your SHRN data? Do they make a difference in how learners and the wider school community engage with the data? We would love to find out more!
Share your experiences by emailing SHRN Engagement Manager,Charlotte Wooders.
Infographic Creation Made Easy: Useful Tools and Resources
