As of November, Google indexed 25,000 infographics on the web. Currently, approximately 200,000 people are searching the term “infographics” each month. So, what are they?

Infographics are visual representations of data and information about something or someone. Here’s an example:

By looking at this infographic, you can quickly understand Kobe Bryant’s NBA success.

Fans have been anticipating his 30,000-point mark, and assuming he’d reach it in early December, the Lakers probably had an infographic locked and loaded.

Today, the Lakers shared the infographic with its ambassadors, including 15.3 million fans on Facebook and 2.8 million Twitter followers.

So, what’s the point?

Fans are embracing the infographic and sharing it like crazy (4,900 Facebook shares and 1,100 retweets by noon today).

In the social media space, it’s easy to share one info-packed visual, especially when dealing with limited character space.

What makes it cool? The visuals and the timing. Beyond the graphic design, this is topical and timely. It’s basketball season. Fans have been waiting for these 30,000 points. They want to celebrate, and the Lakers have made it easy.

How will it help the Lakers? Likely, through website traffic, social media fan growth, increased game attendance (like that’s an issue?!) and product sales.

I’m not the Lakers. How will an infographic help me? If you run a small business, an infographic can help you tell a story or share a case study. It’s especially useful when your story is data-heavy. For example, you’re a local dentist and the holidays are coming up. Why not share an infographic about the impact of candy and holiday sweets on teeth? Visually represented, perhaps with a little humor, these “no-no’s” and facts can be pretty entertaining and enjoyable to read. If a dentist shared this with me, I’d be inclined to post it, pin it and ideally, click-thru to the website and read more about the topic or the business.

What about text? Although an infographic is for easy sharing, I highly encourage paring an infographic with a story or series of stories. Use it as bait. The Lakers shared the infographic, but linked it to a detailed story about Kobe Bryant’s 30,000-point achievement. Extended information is useful for reporters who may be working on a related story, or consumers who prefer in-depth analysis.

Need help figuring out which story to tell? I can help! Email me at april@wordpoppr.com.