Click image to enlarge (via Lokesh Dhakar)
Introduction:
In this very basic infographic, Mr. Lokesh Dhakar attempts to literally spell out not only what is in coffee drinks that primarily contain espresso, but also how to pronounce them. His reasoning, which is just, is that with so many coffee drinks available and with many of them having exotic names, it’s easy to make yourself look a fool when all you want is a little caffeine in your system.
Information: ★★★★
The infographic covers nine different espresso-centric drinks, which while not being an exhaustive survey, is definitely a good beginning. Even if you are moderately familiar with these types of drinks, you may find new information. Also, the graphic displays not only the contents of each drink but also the proportions. This information is easy to digest with color coding and easy to read font. The only real concern is some of the comments that note incorrect ingredients for several drinks. To the infographic’s credit though, it does disclaim that the ingredients and proportions can vary depending on geographic region.
Design: ★★★
The design definitely adheres to form following function. Unfortunately, form is following a little too far behind. While the orange tones compliment the coffee subject matter, the fact that few other colors are used gives the infographic a static feel. Additionally, some of the light beiges are so light as to nearly obscure some of the information. What also stifles the design is the use of the same cup image nine times. This repeated use, while practical, begins to feel heavy towards the end.
Creativity: ★★★
While the use of coffee cups to show the ingredients and proportions in coffee drinks is apt, the divergent thinking ends there. Coffee is amongst the most popular drinks world wide, yet little of this passion or popularity is conveyed. Not to mention that coffee drinks, especially espresso-based ones, tend to stimulate you. This infographic with its white background and rigid expression tends more towards the mundane.
Conclusion:
While this infographic is successful with its primary purpose of conveying information, the value of it mostly ends there. A graphic that could incorporate the robust feelings towards and from these drinks might make for a more effective form of communication.
