In today’s article, we will be taking a deeper dive into one of the most versatile visualization tools that exists today: the Sankey chart. These charts, also known as flow diagrams, have revolutionized data visualization. They are used in many industries, from engineering and finance to marketing and health science, to make complex data more accessible and comprehensible.
What is a Sankey Chart?
The Sankey diagram is a network diagram that represents flows between two entities. It is a useful tool for understanding the flow of information or resources between two endpoints. The chart consists of two main lines: the top of the chart represents the source, and the bottom represents the destination. The flow lines connect the two, indicating the direction of the flow.
The Sankey diagram was first introduced in the 1970s by John Rennie to simplify the presentation of data. Today, they are used by data scientists, engineers, and marketing professionals all over the world.
Applications of Sankey Charts
Sankey charts have many applications in the world of data visualization, and as they become more popular, they are increasingly used to communicate complex data in an understandable and visually appealing way. Here are some examples:
- Marketing
Sankey charts can be used to visualize data related to the marketing process. For example, a graphic designer can use a Sankey chart to show the flow of customers between the design, development, and marketing departments. This can help companies identify bottlenecks and areas that may need improvement.
- Finance
In finance, Sankey charts are often used to visualize the flow of assets and liabilities. For example, a financial analyst can use a Sankey chart to track debt and revenue and show the flow of assets between them. This can help companies better understand their financial position.
- Engineering
Sankey charts can also be used in the engineering field. A mechanical engineer, for example, can use a Sankey chart to visualize the flow of energy between components in a machine. This can help engineers better understand the performance of their machines and identify areas for improvement.
- Health Science
Sankey charts can be used in the healthcare industry to visualize complex data. For example, a healthcare professional can use a Sankey chart to show the flow of medication between patients and pharmacies. This can help healthcare providers better manage their supply chains and reduce waste.
Creating Sankey Charts
Creating a Sankey chart may seem daunting at first, but with the help of some visual aids, anyone can learn to make them. Here are some of the basic steps:
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Choose your data: Decide which data you want to visualize and choose the appropriate categories.
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Create your diagram: Use a software program like Microsoft Excel, Tableau, or any other charting software to create your Sankey chart.
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Format your chart: Choose a clear and intuitive layout for your chart, including the colors and fonts that will make it easy to read.
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Customize your chart: Add labels, annotations, and formatting to make your Sankey chart visually appealing and accessible.
Sankey charts have become an essential tool in data visualization because they can make complex data more accessible and more understandable. With a little practice and patience, anyone can create a Sankey chart. So why not give it a try and see how it can change the way you communicate your data insights?
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