Harness the Power of Better Infographics through Color
Based on numerous facts and figures, it has been established that one may build better infographics by utilizing certain colors. Regardless of age, sex, or location, there is a subconscious association when it comes to consumers. In evaluating the psychology behind a brand, you will quickly find that color and the specific use of a color plays a definitive role in the success of that brand. As a matter of fact, color usage has been known to differentiate the biggest brands throughout the world from each other. When it comes to infographic design, you must know and understand that the colors utilized has an immense amount of influence when it comes to the marketing endeavors associated with that design. In this infographic guide, you will learn quick facts that will assist you in harnessing the immense power of infographics for your business by choosing the appropriate colors during the design process.
The Basics
If you have a business, it is of the utmost importance that you learn a bit about the psychology behind the most popular colored used today in infographic design. This understanding should be reached before initiating on a marketing plan for your business. In the study titled, “Impact of Color in Marketing”, it was found that approximately 90% of quick judgments pertaining to products were based on color. In another study, “The Interactive Effects of Colors”, it was established that the relationship between a brand and color directly relates to the appropriateness associated with the color in combination with the brand, based on consumer perception. In the research conducted under the, “Exciting Red and Competent Blue”, study, it was established that consumer’s purchasing intent is dramatically impacted by the colors because of the impact that those colors have in regards to how a specific brand is perceived. Ultimately, color has the ability to influence the consumer’s unique view of the “personality” of the business utilizing the specific color or color scheme.
In addition to this, it has been determined that specific colors do have the capability to broadly align with certain traits, but, almost every study conducted on the use of colors in branding and marketing endeavors state that it is more important to ensure that the colors that you use support the overall “personality” of the products and/or services that you specialize in, rather than focusing too much on using colors that stereotypically associated with certain things. For example, the color brown is typically used to portray rugged products and services; however, it may also be used to instill feelings of warmness, or to entice the appetite. In order to harness the power of infographics through color, you should determine the context and “personality” of the products and services that you offer consumers. Then, a color should be chosen that outlines the mood, the feelings, and the overall image that you are attempting to use in order to persuade consumers.
The Colors
Now that you understand the psychology of color when it comes to infographic design, it is now time to learn about the most popular colors used by brands. Below, you will be introduced to the colors of blue, red, orange, yellow, green, purple, black, and multi-colored and what each typically represent when it comes to marketing. If you want to truly harness the power of infographics, continue reading for information that will have a positive impact on the effectiveness of your online marketing plan:
Blue
When it comes to marketing, blue is one of the most popular colors used in infographic design. Psychologically, it has been determined that this color represents trustworthiness, honesty, and dependency. Many law enforcement agencies, financial institutions, insurance agencies, and other corporate-based businesses use this color to portray strength, calmness, and security. Examples of brands that utilize the color blue include PayPal, Visa, Facebook, IBM, and Dell.
Red
When attempting to harness the power of infographics, you are sure to find that red is a positive choice. Not only does this color instantly attract the attention of consumers, but, it has also been found to stimulate the physical senses, increase the heart rate, and excite those that see it. Psychologically, red represents energy, love, action, and passion. Many companies that specialize in food and beverages use red as part of their branding and marketing endeavors. Examples of brands that use this vibrant company to win over consumers include Coca-Cola, Disney, KFC, Pinterest, and Nestle.
Orange
Psychologically, orange is a color that is known to inspire, to instill enthusiasm, and to vitalize. It is a color that is commonly used within the workplace because it is known to stimulate socialization. Additionally, orange is used in many restaurants and cafes that specialize in quick-serve menus because it is known to stimulate the appetite. Companies that offer products that are low-priced often use the color orange in their marketing endeavors. Orange is a color that subconsciously informs an individual that something is affordable. Psychologically, orange also means that a brand, product, and/or service is friendly, flamboyant, or retro. Examples of brands that use the color orange include EasyJet, TNT, Nickelodeon, DHL, and Sainsbury’s.
Yellow
When attempting to harness the power of infographics through infographic design utilizing certain colors, yellow is an ideal choice. It is considered by many to be a warm color that represents happiness. It is both optimistic in nature and uplifting. Additionally, it stimulates a high level of mental clarity, inspires creativity, and is attractive to younger people. Psychologically, it is considered to represent playfulness, forward-thinking, and confidence. Examples of brands that use yellow include Dollar General, Post-It, Yellow Pages, Bic, and McDonald’s.
Green
Many businesses utilize the color green in their infographic design. This color is known to reflect harmony within the body and the mind. It is often used to promote health-related products and services, eco-friendly businesses, and companies that specialize in some type of charity. Psychologically, it represents growth, organic products, flexibility, caring, nature, and calmness. Examples that use the color green include Starbuck’s, BP, Spotify, Tropicana, and Holiday Inn.
Purple
Purple is often used in conjunction with products and services that are designed to attract children and females. Many companies use this color to signify sophistication, luxury, and high quality. Additionally, it is often used in conjunction with products and services that are considered to be creative and innovative. Psychologically, the color purple represents the imagination, creativity, sentiment, and nostalgia. Examples of brands that use the color purple include FedEx, Cadbury, Yahoo!, Hallmark, and Monarch.
Black
When harness the power of infographics, black is an ideal choice. This color often reflects luxury and sophistication. Many car companies, music business, and technology businesses use this color. Psychologically, black represents sophistication, authority, and quality. Examples of brands that use black include Sony, Hilton, Bose, Puma, and Rolls Royce.
Multi-Color
If you are interested in attracting a large audience and display a high level of diversity, you should opt for multi-colors in your infographic design. This is especially true if you offer a wide variety of products and/or services. Psychologically, a multi-colored infographic represents positivity, playfulness, boundless, and boldness. Examples of brands that use multi-colors include Google, ebay, NBC, Microsoft, and Toys R Us.
Conclusion
To truly create better infographics, it is essential to consider the color that you use when it comes to infographic design. According to research, 28% of all businesses prefer blue, which makes it the most popular color. The least popular colors are black and purple, only representing 3% of preferences among businesses. Red and orange are the 2nd and 3rd most popular color choices, respectively. According to internet marketers, there is no branding or marketing tool that carries more power than color. Color allows you to transform basic information into an emotional-based experience by stimulating the emotions, instilling trust, and even connecting on a personal level to consumers. In order to harness the power of infographics, you must first harness the power of color.
