Sankey charts are a powerful visualization tool for understanding data flow and transformation. They are especially useful for showing the movement of materials, energy, or information between different systems or entities. In this article, we will explore the basics of Sankey chart creation, as well as some of the many applications for this type of chart.
What are Sankey charts?
Sankey charts are a type of flowchart that use a circular shape at the top to represent the source of the flow, and nodes at the bottom to represent the different systems or entities that the flow can move through. The flowlines connecting the nodes represent the movement of materials, energy, or information between these systems or entities.
Sankey charts are named after Arthur Sankey, a British engineer who invented the chart in the late 19th century. He used the chart to analyze the flow of materials in industrial processes, and later applied it to the study of social and economic systems.
Basics of Sankey chart creation
To create a Sankey chart, you will need to follow a few basic steps:
1.确定要展示的数据流和转换过程
2.确定需要表示的系统和/或实体
3.选择合适的颜色或图案来区分不同的系统和/或实体
4.使用箭头表示数据的流动方向和转换
To create a Sankey chart, you can use a variety of software tools, such as Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, or specialized flowcharting software like Visio. Many of these tools also offer pre-built Sankey chart templates that can be customized to fit your specific needs.
Applications of Sankey charts
Sankey charts are a versatile visualization tool that can be used to understand a wide range of data flow and transformation processes. Some examples of common applications include:
- Manufacturing and supply chain management: Sankey charts can be used to show the flow of materials or components through a manufacturing process, and identify bottlenecks or opportunities for improvement.
- Environmental science: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the movement of pollutants or other substances through an environmental system, and identify sources and sinks of pollution.
- Economic analysis: Sankey charts can be used to show the flow of goods, services, or capital between different economic sectors or regions.
- Social research: Sankey charts can be used to show the flow of information or resources between different social groups or communities.
- Financial analysis: Sankey charts can be used to show the flow of funds or assets between different financial instruments or institutions.
Sankey charts are a powerful visualization tool for understanding data flow and transformation. They can be used to understand a wide range of processes, from manufacturing and supply chain management to environmental science and economic analysis. By following a few basic steps, you can create a Sankey chart to suit your specific needs using a variety of software tools.
SankeyMaster
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