They say that a picture is worth a thousand words. I have always viewed that expression as quaint and rather colloquial. But over the last few weeks, as I have been preparing for a friends and family soft launch, I have been playing with new ways of telling stories, of conveying information in a meaningful and poignant way. Although I am well-versed in the art of data gathering and interpretation, I am less than capable in the art of data art. Thankfully, there are innovative companies that are making it easier for people like me. With tools like these readily available, you will be seeing more “storygraphs” from me for the foreseeable future – pictures meant to represent a thousand words. I hope you enjoy them.
Here’s an example of a storygraph I made. Below it, you’ll find my favorite sites for creating your own storygraphs:
Good Labs
It doesn’t get any easier than Good Labs. This site includes basic Venn diagrams and Pie Charts—if you’re new to the Infographic world.
Stat Planet
Stat Planet is a free Infographic Generator that allows you to build visual aids, using maps and general world statistics, in the form of interactive charts and graphs. The program even has a good deal of global data as well.
Easel.ly
Hang onto your hat, kid. If you are ready to wow your students with amazingly creative graphics, Easel.ly is the tool for you. And—like the name says—it’s easy. There are lots of pre–made graphics, shapes, and colors for you to choose from. But you can also upload your own. Neat!
Hohli Charts
For simple streamlined graphs and charts, check out Hohli. While it’s equally easy to use as Good Labs, it offers additional options in terms of more complex pie charts and visual perspectives.
Piktochart
Piktochart does have a free user option, but there are fewer bells and whistles, of course. At just $14.99 per month for access to all the bells and whistles, it’s a pretty affordable way to create stellar presentations with a seemingly infinite supply of themes.
Others
Vengage: Producing 30-50 a month? This may be the one.
Infogr.am: Beautiful templates get you started quick.