Infographics vs. Fact Sheets

Oftentimes, clients will use the terms “infographic” and “fact sheet” interchangeably, but are they the same thing? For the most part, they serve the same purpose through different approaches. Let’s nerd out about it!

This used to feel like a very contentious subject for me. I would get frustrated when people would conflate the two types of projects, even though (in my biased opinion) they were obviously so different. I had to grow out of that and understand that some people either can’t see through the same lens as myself due to our different areas of expertise, or that they may have seen so many word-heavy infographics and graphic-leaning fact sheets that they really do just bleed together. So then, what is the difference?

Infographics

By definition, an infographic is a stand-alone chart, diagram, or illustration that visually presents information. Here are some examples of what an infographic can look like:

When we use these in the context of an infographic document, the format can be one of two options. One method would be to stick with one central diagram as the basis of the full document.

An example of an infographic that focuses on one diagram. A high-level look into the complex process of deciding what to watch on TV.

Another direction would be to utilize multiple infographics to piece together a full picture of a specific subject.

An example of a multi-diagram infographic. A more intricate visual breakdown into the decision-making process.

Fact Sheets

Fact sheets can certainly contain infographic imagery and have a more visual presence, but the main thing that separates a fact sheet from an infographic is how the information is presented. Fact sheets have full bodies of text, as opposed to being entirely broken down visually. A fact sheet will also usually have a more in-depth typographic hierarchy (a font/style for the headline, subheads, body copy, references, etc.) due to the amount of copy within the document.

An example of an in-depth fact sheet. A detailed analysis of the many factors involved in this decision.

Now, can some infographics be a bit word-heavy? Sure. Especially if it is an informative infographic. Some fact sheets can also lean more heavily on diagrams and graphics — the lines can certainly be blurred. At the very least, I hope this post gives you a better idea on what the key differences are between the two. And when it comes down to it, the client is going to call the project whatever they want to call it.

I hope today treats you well!

– Emma