Sankey charts are a type of flowchart that uses curved lines to display the process flow between two or more sources and sinks. They are a versatile and effective tool for visualizing complex processes and can be used in a variety of scenarios, including supply chain analysis, energy production and consumption, and project management. In this article, we will explore the power of sankey charts and how they can be used to unlock your understanding of complex processes.
History of Sankey Chart Creation
Sankey charts were first introduced by John L. Sankey in the 1960s. He used them to analyze the flow of money in the United Kingdom and to support government policies. These charts have since been used in a wide variety of industries, including finance, engineering, and education, to help visualize processes and decision-making.
Applications of Sankey Charts
Sankey charts can be used in almost any industry where there are multiple sources and sinks interacting with each other. Some common applications include:

• Supply chain analysis: In this application, sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of raw materials or finished products between suppliers and customers.
• Energy production and consumption: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of energy between发电厂 or energy distribution networks and various destinations, such as homes, businesses, or transportation hubs.
• Project management: Sankey charts can be used to visually represent the flow of resources among projects, including personnel, materials, equipment, and tools.

The power of sankey charts

One of the key benefits of sankey charts is the way they can help you gain a deeper understanding of complex processes by using curved lines to represent different types of flow interactions. By visualizing the flow of resources and the resulting interactions, you can identify patterns, anomalies, and opportunities for improvement more easily.

Another important feature of sankey charts is the way they support collaboration. By allowing multiple stakeholders to view the same chart at the same time, sankey charts can help team members understand different perspectives and work collaboratively to address issues and opportunities.

Tips for Creating Sankey Charts

Creating a sankey chart can seem daunting at first, but with some practice, you can master the technique. Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Understand the flow structure: Before you begin creating your chart, it is important to have a clear understanding of how the flow interactions are structured. This may involve researching the subject matter or consulting with subject matter experts.

2. Choose your variables: Once you have a clear understanding of the flow structure, it’s time to decide which variables to visualize. You may include the following:

   • Colors: Use colors to distinguish between sources and sinks.
   • Sizes: Use sizes or thicknesses to represent the volume or rate of flow.
   • Crossovers: Use crossovers to represent multiple sources or sinks that flow in opposite directions.

3. Choose your layout: Sankey charts can be configured in a number of different ways, including:

   • Horizontal view: This is the most common layout and is best suited for horizontal flow structures such as product flows.
   • Vertical view: This is best suited for vertical flow structures such as energy distribution.
4. Pay attention to legibility: Ensure that your chart is legible, even when it is viewed from a distance. Use the right size of font, add proper breaks and labels, and make sure your chart is in a readable format.

In conclusion, sankey charts offer a powerful and versatile visualization tool that can unlock your understanding of complex processes. By understanding the flow structure, choosing the right variables and layout, and paying attention to legibility, you can effectively use sankey charts to visualize your processes and make informed decisions. Whether you are a novice or an experienced user, sankey charts can be an invaluable tool in your decision-making process.

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