Sankey charts have become increasingly popular over the past decade for their ability to visually represent complex networks. Created by Benjamín Sankey in 1880, these diagrams have been used historically for tracking resources and flows through networks. However, not many people know the secrets behind successfully creating and reading Sankey charts. This article will explore the basics, why they work, and their applications.
What are sankey charts?
Sankey charts consist of a series of vertical and horizontal lines. Each line represents an entity (or “node” in network terminology). Each line is given a unique color, which is typically related to the entity’s function or role in the network. The size of the line represents the amount of flow or resource entering the node. Finally, the total resource flow or amount of information flowing through the network is shown as an arrow on top of the chart.
How to create a sankey chart
Once you have a basic understanding of sankey charts, you can create one yourself using specialized software or online tools. Start by drawing the lines, dividing the chart by categories, and assign a color to each category. You can also use software to add information or labels to help identify each node and arrow. Finally, use a fill-color tool to fill the line segments, which will visually indicate the amount of flow entering or exiting the node.
Applications of sankey charts
Sankey charts have a wide range of applications. They can be used to understand and analyze complex systems, such as supply chains or social networks. In industries such as logistics, they can help identify resource flows and bottlenecks, allowing for improvement and optimization. In medical research, they can help understand drug supply chains or the transportation of biological materials between researchers. In the field of social networks, they can help track the movement of people or resources and reveal social ties.
In conclusion, Sankey charts are a powerful tool for understanding and visualizing complex networks. With careful design and interpretation, they allow for a deep insight into the workings of systems and their relationships. Whether you are working in logistics, healthcare, industry, or social networking, sankey charts can help you make informed decisions and improve your network management.

SankeyMaster

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