Sankey charts are a type of diagram that visualize the flow of data or information. They are great for showing how data flows from one point to another, such as how information is transmitted through a network or how data is used to solve a problem. In this article, we will take a look at what a sankey chart is, how it is created, and how it can be used to understand flow patterns.
What is a Sankey Chart?
A Sankey chart is a type of diagram that plots data in a flow chart format. It uses lines to represent the flow of data and arrows to indicate the direction of the flow. Each line and arrow in the chart represents a specific piece of data and shows how the data flows from one point to another.
Sankey charts are created by first laying out the data that you want to visualize. This could be anything from network flow, energy flows to processes, or even customer interactions. After you have the data in hand, you can create the chart by placing each piece of data on its own line or arrow that represents that data’s flow direction. The thickness of each line or arrow shows the magnitude of the flow.
How to Create a Sankey Chart?
Creating a sankey chart is a relatively simple process. Here are the steps you can take to create your own sankey chart:
- Identify the data that you want to visualize, and make sure you understand how the data is related to each other.
- Determine the direction of the flow, and make sure that the arrows show the correct direction.
- Create the lines or arrows that represent each piece of data, with each line or arrow indicating the flow of data.
- Add labels to each line and arrow to label the data that it represents.
- If possible, create your sankey chart in a software that makes it easy to edit and add more data.
Applications of Sankey Charts
Sankey charts are widely used in a variety of fields, including business, research, and engineering. Here are a few examples:
- Network analysis: Sankey charts are used to analyze the flow of information flows in a network. For example, you can use a sankey chart to visualize the information flow between colleagues, clients, and suppliers in a company.
- Process analysis: Sankey charts can be used to analyze the flow of information within a process, such as how information is transmitted through an office building or hospital.
- Energy analysis: Sankey charts can be used to analyze the flow of energy in a power grid, or how information is transmitted during transmission of energy.
Conclusion
Sankey charts can be a powerful visualization tool for understanding how data flows between different points. They are easy to create and use if you understand the data you are visualizing, and they are useful in a variety of fields. With a bit of practice, you can use a sankey chart to understand the flow of information or data in a new way that you didn’t even know was possible.
SankeyMaster
SankeyMaster is your go-to tool for creating complex Sankey charts . Easily enter data and create Sankey charts that accurately reveal intricate data relationships.
