Department of Health and Social Services Library

Difference between ​infographics and Data Visualization

Benjamin Wiederkehr of Datavisualization.ch retrieved from https://readwrite.com/2011/01/07/difference-between-datavisualization-infographics/

“Information graphics are visual representations of information, data or knowledge often used to support information, strengthen it and present it within a sensitive context….They are specific, context-sensitive and often times hand-crafted. Data visualizations are visual displays of measured quantities by means of the combined use of a coordination system, points, lines, shapes, digits, letters quantified by visual attributes. They are general, context-free and often times created automatically. Both can be static, animated or interactive…So, I think the difference is more about the objective. Information graphics; are used to tell a story or answer a question. Data visualizations are used to let the user find his own story or answer.”

Image retrieved from LinkedIn Slideshare 2018

Infographics vs Data visualization :The critical difference 

"Data storytelling is a structured approach for communicating data insights, and it involves combination of three key elements: data, visuals, and narrative.When you combine the right visuals and narrative with the right data, you have a data story that can influence and drive change. " Brent Dykes, Forbes "Data Storytelling: The Essential Data Science Skill Everyone Needs"

Steps for Creating a Visualization by George Mason University

1.Know your data & purpose