Unveiling the Flow: A Visual Dive into Sankey Chart Insights

In the world of data visualization, Sankey diagrams stand out as unique chart types that elegantly depict the direction and magnitude of flow within a process or system. Beyond their aesthetic allure, Sankey diagrams are powerful tools for analysis and understanding, especially when it comes to complex systems and processes such as energy flows, supply chains, and water distribution. This article provides an in-depth look at the creation and applications of Sankey diagrams, helping to uncover their insights and potential.

What is a Sankey Chart?

A Sankey diagram, also known as flow diagrams, was invented by the 19th-century engineer, Sankey. Initially developed to visualize heat energy flows, these diagrams have evolved to illustrate various types of processes and systems. At their core, Sankey charts are directional arrows that represent the flow of energy, materials, or commodities. Each Sankey diagram’s unique design reflects the direction and magnitude of the flow by using varying widths of arrows, which are drawn in a straight line between two nodes.

The characteristics of a Sankey chart are as follows:

1. Nodes: The points at which flows enter and exit the process.
2. Arrows: The flows themselves, which have different widths to represent the magnitude of the flow.
3. Flows: Can represent energy, materials, money, or information.
4. Labels: Explain each flow in terms of the substance it represents, such as electricity or water.

Creating a Sankey Chart

Creating a Sankey chart can be a detailed process, but with the right tools, it’s achievable even for those new to data visualization. Here’s a step-by-step approach to creating a Sankey chart:

Step 1: Data Collection

Gather the data that you want to represent in your Sankey chart. This includes every node and flow within the system you’re studying. Ensure that the numerical values reflect the magnitude of the flows you want to depict.

Step 2: Choose the Right Tool

Several software options are available for creating Sankey charts, such as Microsoft PowerPoint, Excel, or specifically designed tools like Sankey Diagrams by Maptitude or Sankey Generator by the Dutch company SankeyLab.

Step 3: Design Nodes and Flows

In your chosen tool, create nodes based on your data points. These will serve as the departure and arrival points for your flows. Then, design flows between these nodes, using the width of the arrows to signify relative flow magnitude.

Step 4: Layout Sankey Diagram

Manually or using the tool’s auto-layout feature, arrange the nodes and flows in a logical and readable order that reflects the nature of the process.

Step 5: Fine-Tuning

Adjust nodes, direction of flow, and arrow widths until the diagram is accurate and clear. Use labels to describe each element and help viewers understand the chart more easily.

Applications of Sankey Charts

Sankey diagrams have found a variety of applications across different industries, as they provide a clear visualization of material and energetic flow systems. Here are a few examples:

Energy Management

Sankey diagrams show how energy is used and lost within a process. For engineers and facility managers, they’re essential for identifying inefficiencies and opportunities for energy savings.

Supply Chain Analysis

In logistics and supply chain management, these diagrams can help map the flow of goods, materials, and services. It’s especially useful for understanding and optimizing complex supply chains.

Ecosystem Studies

Environmental scientists use Sankey diagrams to understand ecosystem dynamics, tracking the flow of nutrients, energy, and water through food webs and ecological systems.

Logistics Planning

Logistics professionals rely on Sankey diagrams to model the movement of products or people, aiding in route optimization, transportation planning, and resource allocation.

Project Management

Project managers can utilize Sankey diagrams to map the flow of tasks and resource utilization within a project lifecycle, highlighting bottlenecks and areas for improvement.

Environmental Impact Assessment

Sankey diagrams facilitate the assessment of environmental footprints by illustrating the flow of resources or emissions over different processes.

Conclusion

Sankey charts offer a remarkable opportunity to visualize the complexities of flow within systems, breaking down previously abstract or hidden patterns into clear, actionable insights. As with any tool, the effectiveness of a Sankey diagram is directly linked to the quality of data and clear interpretation. By creating and analyzing these diagrams, you can turn the flow into a language that speaks volumes about the processes that surround us. Whether you’re an engineer, a financier, or a sustainability expert, the Sankey chart is a valuable addition to your visual data portfolio.

SankeyMaster

SankeyMaster is your go-to tool for creating complex Sankey charts . Easily enter data and create Sankey charts that accurately reveal intricate data relationships.