Depok-The development of digital content in recent years shows that visuals have an increasingly crucial role in conveying messages. Based on infographic data from thetreetop.com, the average attention span, or the length of time a person can maintain focus on a task or activity before being distracted, is only 8.25 seconds. People now connect more easily through images, illustrations, infographics, and visual data compared to long texts. This condition demands new skills, namely how to process information and data into attractive presentations. This skill was the focus of discussion in a guest lecture session entitled “Smart Communication with Infographics” held by the Multimedia Broadcasting study program, Vocational Education Program, Universitas Indonesia (UI), on October 7, 2025 at the UI Vocational Auditorium. The guest lecture, which was integrated with the Information Technology course, presented Fajri Ma’rifatullah, a Presentation Coach and Data Storyteller.
Fajri explained that visuals are one of the most powerful elements in the communication process. He believes that humans tend to grasp information more quickly through images than through text. Therefore, appropriate data presentation can help audiences understand messages more effectively. “Visuals are a universal language that transcends age, culture, and educational background,” Fajri explained.
(Photo: Awarding of a certificate of appreciation by the Head of the Multimedia Broadcasting Study Program, Peny Meliaty Hutabarat, S.Sos., M.S.M., to Fajri Ma’rifatullah)
Furthermore, Fajri explained that every visual element, including color, shape, typography, and layout, has its own meaning and communication function. Through an on-screen demonstration, Fajri demonstrated how a seemingly rigid set of numbers can transform into a compelling story when visualized with the right graphics and colors.
Fajri also introduced various types of infographics, from statistical infographics, flowcharts, comparisons, to listicles. He emphasized that choosing an infographic format can influence how quickly the main message is understood. He also highlighted three basic elements of infographics: color, typography (font), and illustration. All three should be used with meaningful consideration: color to direct focus, font to maintain readability, and illustration to reinforce the message.
Students were also encouraged to understand the role of technology in infographic creation. Fajri demonstrated various formats, including static, animated (explainer) and interactive infographics, which are now increasingly easy to create thanks to platforms like Canva and PowerPoint. However, he emphasized that tools are just tools. “A successful infographic is one that can enhance critical thinking skills and empathy for the audience,” he said.
(Photo: Group photo with the audience after the guest lecture ended)
Through this guest lecture, students are expected to gain a practical understanding of data communication, particularly in creating effective infographics. The Head of the Multimedia Broadcasting Study Program and lecturer in charge of the Information Technology course, Peny Meliaty Hutabarat, S.Sos., M.S.M., said that in today’s information age, students need to have skills that go beyond simply understanding data. In the Multimedia Broadcasting study program, students also study infographics or data visualization, website content, and AI journalism. “Students must have skills that go beyond just understanding information and data, but also being able to process them into communicative visual messages in the form of infographics,” she said.
Peny emphasized that mastery of visual communication is a relevant skill in various fields, from media, the creative industry, to corporations. This guest lecture aligns with the learning outcomes of the course, enabling students to integrate critical thinking skills, digital literacy, and creativity to produce communication products that adapt to developments in media technology.
