Introduction
Sankey charts are a visual representation of network analysis that are used to visualize and understand the flow of data or information in a network. These charts are widely used in various fields, such as engineering, economics, social sciences, and IT, to understand and analyze the relationships between different elements.
In this article, we will explore the power of sankey charts, focusing on their creation and applications. We will also delve into the principles that drive their creation and the techniques that are commonly used by professionals in the field of network analysis.
Preliminary Steps: Understanding Sankey Charts
Sankey charts are visually appealing, making it easier to understand the relationships between different elements. They are characterized by the use of linear arrows moving between nodes, forming a funnel-like structure. The flow of information or data is represented by the size and color of the arrows, and the direction of the arrows indicates the flow of data from one node to another.
Steps to Creating a Sankey Chart
1. Define the Network: First, define the network of interest, identifying the different nodes and relationships between them. It is essential to identify the central nodes (those that receive the most information or data) and the peripheral nodes (those that have little to no information or data).
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Determine the Parameters: Next, determine the type of parameters to be represented. These parameters can be numbers, words or other data types. It is important to select the parameters that will be useful for analysis.
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Decide on the Layout: For each node, decide on the layout that will best represent the flow of data or information. Common layouts include the funnel layout, which represents the flow of information from one node to another, and the matrix layout, which shows the flow of data using the number of flows through each entry.
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Select a Style: Select a style that will make the chart visually appealing. This can include colors, fonts, and graphics that enhance the clarity of the chart.
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Choose the Color Scheme: The color scheme used in sankey charts can help to distinguish between different nodes and the direction of the flow. The color used for the central nodes should generally be the same, while the peripheral nodes can be represented with different colors or shading.
Applications of Sankey Charts
Sankey charts are widely used in the field of network analysis to understand relationships and processes. Here are some of the applications of sankey charts:
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Logistics Operations: In the field of logistics, sankey charts are used to understand supply chain processes, including shipping, storage, and transport. These charts are used to analyze the flow of goods, material and equipment and identify the bottlenecks in the chain.
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Healthcare: In healthcare, sankey charts are used to analyze the flow of patients, doctors, nurses and other healthcare staff. These charts are used to understand the communication and coordination process in a healthcare system.
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Social Networking: In social science, sankey charts are used to understand the relationships between different nodes, such as people, organizations, or ideas. These charts are used to study the flow of information or data in a social network.
Conclusion
Sankey charts are a powerful visual tool for understanding and analyzing network data. By understanding the principles behind their creation and applications, individuals can create and understand complex network analysis data, making it easier to gain insights and make informed predictions. With their unique style and versatility, sankey charts are an essential tool for anyone involved in the field of network analysis.
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