A recent comment about the NY Times infographic got me thinking about why I like infographics and when I don’t.
An infographic, I believe, is not about detail – it’s the sum of the parts that are on show. For datzis (data-nazis) – there’s always the source if it’s the minutiae you’re after.
I believe an infographic’s purpose is to enlighten – not educate. To give you that sense of “hey, I get it enough for my purposes.” For that “I fully understand all the ramifications of this illustrated data source” go to the 400 page tome the info designers undoubtedly whittled down for you.
I believe, an infographic’s purpose if to give you the impressionist view, not photorealism.