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Designing an Infographic: Comparison

Comparison Infographics

You have a dilemma; how do you get your reader to select the choice you want them to make?  Or, how do you get your readers to choose the correct, most well-rounded choice for them? We know a lot of people have difficulties making decisions, so this is not as easy as it sounds.  Giving readers big, long reports, detailing all their options isn't useful, and more won't bother with them or will just skim the highlights. Comparison Infographics come in and save the day. A Comparison Infographic is one that provides an overview of the data and makes it easier to understand the various options.

Comparison Infographic-Example Product Comparison

You might use an infographic for a product comparison chart -- either of your own brand or vs. competitors. A product comparison aids buyers' purchases by magnifying any strengths and weaknesses, describing its appearance, etc.

Comparison Infographic-Example of Comparison Table

To make data simple to interpret you can construct an eye-catching table. Wading through several options can be difficult, specifically if the data is technical. Creating a comparison table is one way to compare and contrast numerous options between two or more things. To keep things interesting and also make the data easier to understand you can add icons and well-placed colors.  Comparison tables are more effective than a spreadsheet as they keep the reader interested and make the data easier to comprehend.

Comparison Infographic-Example of Fact vs Fiction

Expose falsehoods by comparing side-by-side with the truth. Occasionally, we do not understand how ludicrous a fact is until it is compared to the truth. Comparison Infographics are great tools for teaching readers, easy to share on social media, and ideal for presentations.

Comparison Infographic-Example of Venn Diagram

Highlight overlapping points with a Venn diagram. A Venn diagram shows where two things are different and where they are the same. You could always jazz it up with bright colors or icons if this seems too boring for your theme. 

Comparison Infographic-Example of a Chart

To compare metrics for various sections use charts. If you want to compare the same metric to various sections, distinct channels, or particular time periods, you can use the same kind of chart to compare information which will help showcase the differences.

Comparison Infographic-Example of Numbers with Bold Font

Use large, eye-catching fonts to accentuate specific numbers. Make numbers or statistics that you want to highlight in a larger font than the other body text on your infographic. Additionally, you can make your statistics leap from your infographic by selecting a contrasting color for the numbers.

Comparison Infographic-Example of Sliding Rating Scale

Display opinions with a sliding rating scale. When comparing opinions, customer approval, or preferences, typically the responses will not be straightforward. A sliding rating scale lets you achieve a precise percentage rating.

Comparison Infographic-Example of Color Coding

To make it simpler to browse through your Comparison Infographic color code your information. If you assign certain colors to specific metrics or types of data your viewers can scan the data and grasp it faster.

Comparison Infographic-Example of Pro-Con Infographic

To inspire wise choices, reflect on the pros and cons of each side.  When you list out your choices it can make it simpler to analyze both sides of a matter. Using graphics to clarify points --like comparison infographics-- works even better because according to a study at Michigan State University what we see plays a big role in the choices we make. 

Comparison Infographic-Example of Tactical Colors

Tactically use colors in your Comparison Infographic to sway decision-making. Colors can influence how we view data.  For example, for most people, green means "go" or "good", but red means "stop or "bad". You can use color to influence what people believe to be the correct decision and the incorrect decision.

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Pro tip: Read Venngage's guide on color selection for examples of how to use colors strategically. Or check out the section on color on the For More Information page.

Comparison Infographic-Example of Highs and Lows

Split your Comparison Infographic horizontally to demonstrate highs and lows. Just because vertical layouts are standard, doesn't mean you have to use that layout, be creative. Layout the text and graphics to echo the theme of your infographic. Divide your infographic horizontally to demonstrate highs and lows, using directional cues to guide the viewer's eyes to important data.

Comparison Infographic-Example of a Timeline

To compare journeys or related procedures make timelines. There are multiple situations where you would want to compare timelines. To differentiate the timelines use diverse colors for the individual timelines to make them stand out. Icons are also a good choice to help group data, showing where timelines converge and depart.

Comparison Infographic-Example of Icon Styles

To have one choice look more interesting than the other, contrast the styles of icons you use.  Typically, it is best to only use one style of icon in your infographic to help your design be a cohesive piece, but occasionally you can break the rules when you understand them. As an example, one side of your comparison might have icons that are bright and colorful while the other side might be more boring. This is a subtle way to sway your audience to the point you want to make.

Comparison Infographic-Example of Image for Background

Select an image for your background that ties in with the theme of your data graphically. With some data, it is hard to see the story that goes with it, but using images will help. Create an infographic with data more relevant to readers by using photos or illustrations. Then, select a transparent color placed on the infographic for the text, so it stands out from the background.

Comparison Infographic-Example of a Bar Graph

Compare data with an easy bar graph. If you are worried about doing too much on your infographic there is nothing wrong with being cautious. The basic bar graph is a perfect way to compare information, and you can always create more interest in your infographic than a plain Excel chart.

Comparison Infographic-Example of Recognizable Icons

Envision ideas with instantly recognizable icons. Icons let you envision and display data in one succinct graphic, being both ornamental and practical. The main thing is to verify the context of your icon is simple to grasp.