Streamlining processes is crucial for any organization to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance customer satisfaction. Sankey charts are an effective way to visualize and optimize flow in a process, making it easier to identify bottlenecks, excess capacity, and opportunities for improvement. In this article, we will explore the basics of Sankey chart creation and some real-world applications.

What is a Sankey Chart?

Sankey charts, also known as flowcharts, are diagrammatic representations of the flow of materials or information through a system. They are named after Louis Sankey, an industrial engineer who developed the chart in the 1890s. Sankey charts are particularly useful for visualizing relationships between different elements in a process, including inputs, outputs, and conversions.

Sankey charts consist of a set of interconnected circles, and the flow between them is represented by arrows. The circles and arrows are color-coded to differentiate between different types of flow, such as material or information. The chart can be used to identify process weaknesses, optimize production schedules, and improve communication between departments.

How to Create a Sankey Chart

Creating a Sankey chart is a relatively simple process that involves a few steps. Here’s a basic process for creating a Sankey chart:

1. Gather data: The first step in creating a Sankey chart is to gather data on the different elements in the process, including inputs, outputs, and conversions. This data can be obtained from process documents, interviews with stakeholders, or other sources.
2. Organize data: Once the data has been gathered, it needs to be organized into a suitable format for a Sankey chart. This may involve creating a spreadsheet, using specialized software, or working with a process engineer.
3. Create the chart: Once the data has been organized, the chart can be created using specialized software or a spreadsheet with charting tools. The software or spreadsheet should allow you to specify the type of chart, select the elements to be included, and configure the colors and other visual elements.
4. Validate and refine: Before finalizing the chart, it is important to validate the data and refine the chart to ensure that it accurately reflects the process. This may involve making adjustments to the data or the chart itself.

Applications of Sankey Charts

Sankey charts are a powerful tool for optimizing processes, improving communication, and identifying areas for improvement. Here are some examples of how Sankey charts can be used:

1. Process analysis: Sankey charts can be used to analyze a process step by step, identifying bottlenecks, excess capacity, and opportunities for improvement. This can help organizations optimize their processes and reduce waste.
2. Supply chain management: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of materials through a supply chain, identifying inefficiencies and opportunities for improvement. This can help organizations optimize their logistics and improve their bottom line.
3. Customer service: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of customer interactions through a support or service process, identifying areas for improvement and improving communication between different departments.
4. Organizational management: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of information and resources within an organization, identifying areas for improvement and improving communication and collaboration.

Conclusion

Streamlining processes is essential for any organization to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance customer satisfaction. Sankey charts are a powerful tool for visualizing flow in a process, making it easier to identify bottlenecks, excess capacity, and opportunities for improvement. By following the steps outlined in this article, organizations can create and use Sankey charts to optimize their processes and improve their overall performance.

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