A variety of different chart and map treatments are being used during the COVID 19 outbreak to relay data. Some are easier to comprehend than others. Colour plays a significant role in the creation of effective infographics and the map shown here, produced by Statista, is an excellent example of colour used cleverly.
The designer opted to use a spectrum of warm colours for this chart – a palette that is universally associated with heat. The more intense the colour, the hotter or greater the risk. Instinctively, the viewer makes the connection to the spread of the virus and the data is quickly understood. This map is relying on semiotics: warm colours = fire, trouble, warning. The colour green and its association with growth could have been used here, however, green does not convey a sense of urgency. Capitalizing on an individual colour’s built-in associations, histories and meanings can prove beneficial when creating lucid infographics.