What Are Infauxgraphics?

Infographics are visual representations of information, data or knowledge intended to present complex information quickly and clearly. They are incredibly popular in social media, because they work. Here are some of the favorite infographics of Fast Company magazine. And there are, of course, infographics about infographics – even interactive ones.

But what turns an infographic into an infauxgraphic? If it’s ugly, silly, misguided, or misleading.

Ugly

Some infauxgraphics are just really ugly.

Silly

Some infauxgraphics may just be silly or funny.

Misguided

Infauxgraphics may be misguided, and fail in the mission by concentrating on graphic design rather than information design. This is by far the most common problem: the design is visually arresting, but gets in the way of understanding, using pointless or uninteresting facts. Here’s a great spoof adapted from a piece by Phil Gyford – click to see the original in its full glory.

Misleading

Worst of all – and heavily used in any area that is even mildly controversial – an infauxgraphic may be unintentionally or deliberately misleading.

Please be merciful to us all – if you have to make infographics, please make sure they’re not infauxgraphics!