Infographics and data visualisation, in their purest form, are charts and graphs. Communicating complicated data in a visual format is the easiest way for the brain to assimilate complex figures. By presenting graphs and charts we can instantly see an overview of where trends lie and help us to translate the data we are presented with. The humble bar chart is one of the most powerful tools of data presentation we have. It may be basic, some may even say boring, but the bar chart, in its minimalist elegance cannot be bettered.

Good design is about removing things until you are left with what is essential and The Rise and Fall of SME infographic from companydebt.com is an example of not trying to overdress something for the sake of unnecessary decoration.

The series of charts tells a story of the current state of the SME. We can see trends from the last 20 years and each chart is accompanied by an explanation of the data for us to better understand what we are being presented with.

The design is minimal, functional and efficient. The banner clearly tells us what the information is about and then leads us through a series of charts that each explain and contribute to the overall successes and failures of the Small to Medium Enterprise. This concludes with the statement that businesses established in 2006/7 had the best survival rate, a 97% first year success rate. And 2010 being the worst year for survival with a 48% four year survival success rate.

A niche piece of content that tells an overall story and insight into the economy through the up and down nature of SMEs over the last 20 years. Targeted, efficient and well presented. Overall a 7 out of 10.