Elissa Schloesser on 5 Steps for Translating Evaluation Findings into Infographics

My name is Elissa Schloesser, I’m a freelance graphic designer specializing in communicating complex information and ideas. I work specifically with mission-based organization, and partner with a number of evaluators to create communication pieces that summarize evaluation findings for use with funders, potential supporters, and to be more broadly shared with the public.

Below are the key steps I use to translate evaluation findings into an infographic. Don’t be afraid if you’re not a designer, I find the most critical design stage comes before putting anything on paper.

Hot Tips:

Step 1. Define your purpose

Why am I creating this piece? What do I hope it will accomplish?

This step is critical. If you can’t answer these questions you should stop before moving onto any other steps.

Step 2. Know your audience

Who is my target audience? What knowledge level do they have of the subject?

This will help you determine how much and what details you will need to include in your piece to make it relevant and understandable. For example, if the piece is targeted at a policy maker who isn’t an expert in your subject area, leave off the acronyms and insider terminology.

Step 3. Establish your key message

If my audience can only take one point away from my piece, what should it be?

Translate your evaluation findings into a key message. Make sure it is clear and included right up front of your piece.

Step 4. Translate your data/findings

What data/findings best support my key message? How can I communicate it in a way that is most understandable and relevant to my target audience?

Put your numbers in context. Make sure it is relevant to your audience and creates a visual image in their mind (i.e. equal to the population of New York City). This pertains to percentages as well (i.e. instead of says 75%, say 3 out of 4).

If your findings are more conceptual (i.e. partnerships are the key to the organization’s success). Draw a simple diagram that shows how various items relate.

Step 5. Create your infographic

Start sketching your concept on paper. It will give you much more freedom to manipulate your idea before moving to the computer. Once moving to the computer, limit your color palette to 2-3 base colors and eliminate any unnecessary borders, shading, or 3-d graphs in your visuals.

 

Rad Resource: I typically will create infographics or summary pieces using Adobe or Microsoft products, but here are some templates options that I have seen recommended.

• Easel.ly
• Infogr.am
• Picktochart

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