The Value Of Infographics

More informative than a graphic, more graphic than information, the “infographic” is taking the world by storm. For the unfamiliar, infographics are graphic visual representations of information or data. They illustrate information clearly and quickly in graphic format, which would otherwise be lengthy and complex in text form. Think of them as the visual version of a sound byte, condensing important data into graphical elements that capture the eye and absorb the mind. For these reasons, infographics are ideal for communicating with the modern online audience whose attention and time are both very limited.

In addition to being visually captivating with their bright colors and bold charts, infographics also create buzz. A cool and compelling infographic is virtually guaranteed to be shared on Twitter, Facebook, social networks and blogs. This makes them incredibly attractive for companies looking to promote themselves through social media in the most influential, buzz-generating and highly sharable ways.

“Infographics are one of the most effective linkbait strategies you can leverage to earn links from a variety of domains,” said Charlie Ellis of MDG Advertising, “building unique linking domains in bulk can provide an unmatchable link equity gain in competitive verticals – linkbaiting with infographics is a reliable way to make that happen.”

According to a study at the University of Pennsylvania on presentations, people retain only 10 percent of the content when information is conveyed orally. That number increases to 50 percent when a presentation includes visuals and words. This perfectly illustrates why infographics are proving so effective for today’s companies and consumers.

Sterling Satellite is one company enjoying great social media success with infographics, according to PRWeb. The DISH Network reseller recently shared an infographic called “TV Viewership by the Numbers” about the viewing habits of the US public that featured key statistics about worldwide television habits. Since posting the infographic on the Sterling blog, the post has generated over 100 retweets on Twitter, along with thousands of views on StumbleUpon and heavy coverage on numerous other social sites. As a result, web site traffic has spiked and the company now has a top rank on Google.

No matter the size of the business or brand, infographics can be used to your advantage to help increase website traffic, build high-quality backlinks to your site and generate word of mouth. All you need for infographic success are the following four elements:

1.    An interesting topic that bloggers and readers will want to share

2.    Well-researched and accurate data

3.    A visually powerful design

4.    A digital expert to bring all of the elements together and broadcast it to the social media community

With those infographic factors in place, you can sit back and let the buzz begin.

Charlie Ellis is the SEO strategist at MDG Advertising.  MDG Advertising, a full-service Florida advertising agency, with offices in Boca Raton and New York, NY, specializes in developing targeted Internet marketing solutions, exceptional creative executions and solid branding and media buying strategies that give clients a competitive advantage.Our core capabilities include print advertising, branding, logo design , creative, digital marketing, media planning and buying, TV and radio advertising, public relations, Web design and development, email marketing, social media marketing and SEO. To view MDG’s portfolio, click here.

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Written by Michael Del Gigante