Sankey charts are a powerful data visualization tool that allow you to easily see the flow and transformation of data. They are often used to show the movement of goods, services, or information, as well as to display the relationships and dependencies between different entities. In this article, we will discuss the basics of creating Sankey charts and explore some of the many ways they can be used to bring clarity to complex data sets.

What is a Sankey Chart?

Sankey charts were first introduced by Johnsankey.com in 2013 and have since become a popular visualization tool for Flowcharts and Circular diagrams. They are particularly useful for showing the movement of data between different entities or stages, as well as the dependencies and dependencies between them.

Using Sankey charts, you can easily see how different stages or flows are connected, as well as how data flows between them. For example, you could use a Sankey chart to show the flow of customer orders through a manufacturing process, highlighting the different stages at which orders are processed, inspected, and packed.

How to Create a Sankey Chart

Creating a Sankey chart is relatively easy and can be done using a variety of tools, including Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Google Sheets. Here are the basic steps for creating a Sankey chart:

1. Gather your data: The first step in creating a Sankey chart is to gather the data that you will be visualizing. This may involve collecting data from various sources, such as spreadsheets, databases, or API calls.
2. Import the data: Once you have your data, you will need to import it into your charting tool. This typically involves creating a new chart or inserting a flowchart into an existing document.
3. Set up the chart: The next step is to set up the chart itself. This may involve choosing a chart style or layout, defining the data sources, and setting any other visual properties of the chart.
4. Create the flowcharts: Once the chart is set up, you can start creating the flowcharts themselves. This typically involves adding nodes, links, and shapes to the chart to visualize the flow of data.
5. Customize the chart: Finally, you can customize the chart as desired, adding annotations, titles, or other elements to make it easier to understand.

Applications of Sankey Charts

Sankey charts are a versatile visualization tool that can be used in a wide range of applications, including:

1. Process Flow: Sankey charts are particularly useful for visualizing processes, such as manufacturing, logistics, or supply chain management. They allow you to easily see the flow of data through different stages or steps, and highlight any bottlenecks or areas where improvements can be made.
2. Customer Journey Mapping: Sankey charts are also well-suited for Customer Journey Mapping, a process for understanding and optimizing the customer experience. They allow you to easily visualize the flow of a customer’s interactions with your business, highlighting any pain points or areas where customer experience can be improved.
3. Data Exploration: Sankey charts can also be used for exploring and analyzing data sets, such as social media feeds, website traffic, or financial data. They allow you to easily see the flow of data between different entities or stages, and highlight any patterns or trends that may be present.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Sankey charts are a powerful data visualization tool that allow you to easily see the flow and transformation of data. They are particularly useful for visualizing processes, customer journeys, and data sets, and can be used in a wide range of applications. By following the basic steps outlined in this article, you can easily create your own Sankey charts to bring clarity to complex data sets.

SankeyMaster

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