Using Infographics for Engaging Visual Communication - ALLA Conference Workshop

<p>Communicating with patrons to provide relevant and useful information is an important part of a librarian’s role. However, equally important is the ability to present this information in an engaging way, so that it can be understood and applied by those patrons. Many useful guides and instructions are under-utilised. The majority of these text heavy word documents, no matter how useful, don’t get the message across effectively. For the time-poor user, they appear dated and convoluted.</p> <p>Fortunately, there is a new approach to this problem, known as ‘infographics’. These graphic representations of information catch the user’s attention and communicate in a simple and modern manner. Text can be replaced with images that convey the same message. Less text means the information can be quickly scanned and is more likely to be retained. The bright modern designs of infographics are engaging and eye-catching.</p> <p>Infographics can address a variety of needs; there are printable infographics that fit neatly onto a page, or digital, interactive and sharable infographics. Some infographics can be used in presentation mode, selecting only sections of the entire image at a time. Infographics can also be used to present data from feedback surveys or for an annual report using their graphs function, or for conference posters, signage, event invitations, and more. At Monash University Library, we have used infographics extensively in our teaching and learning program.</p> <p>Infographics are very easy to create, using any of the freely available platforms online. Everything is fully customisable – from the text, to the background, images and colour scheme. You can make them as simple or as complicated as you require. </p> <p>This workshop focuses on two of these free online platforms; <i>Piktochart</i> and <i>Canva</i>. The basic functionalities of the programs are covered, and the benefits and limitations of each are compared. Every participant in the workshop will be able to work through the entire process of creating an infographic in each platform. Participants will leave with the skills to build a range of infographics for a variety of purposes. </p>