Informational graphics

• Charts and graphs should sum up and clarify information in a neat, attractive package.

• Pie charts compare proportion, line or fever charts show trends, and bar or column charts compare multiple items.

• Color/value contrast is used to distinguish information and enhance appearance. Is the text legible?

• Incorporating pictures or symbols related to content can make info graphics appealing, as do 3D effects

Borders, rules and boxes...

• Rules, ruled or subtly tinted boxes and backgrounds can add interest, organize material and break up the gray

• Graphic devices are excellent for bridging elements, to connect picture and caption, for example

• Highlight special material: a quote, a sidebar, a coupon: a call to action

Copyright Lynch & Horton, 1997. Yale University.
http://info.med.yale.edu/caim/manual/

Dimension helps this isometric diagram.

Fancy borders were once the main tool of a designer,
but today it would take a compelling, content-driven
reason to use something like this.

• Keep it simple. Don't use decorative borders unless they are appropriate to the message or are part of a special concept

• In general, decoration for its own sake, e.g., elements not related to content, can be superfluous and gaudy