Title: Unleashing the Power of Process: A Guide to Sankey Charts

Introduction

Sankey charts are a powerful data visualization tool that can be used to show the flow of materials, energy, or information between different nodes in a process or system. They are widely used in industry, research, and environmental management to identify waste, optimize processes, and improve resource utilization. In this guide, we will explore the basics of creating Sankey charts, as well as their applications in various fields.

What is a Sankey Chart?

Sankey charts were originally developed by Process Flow Inc. as a means to visualize the flow of materials between different nodes in a process. A Sankey chart is essentially a flow diagram with a set of nodes and directed branches that represent the movement of materials or other entities between those nodes. The chart displays the flow rates or quantities of the materials at each node and between the nodes, allowing users to analyze and optimize their processes.

Sankey Chart Creation

Creating a Sankey chart requires the use of specialized software, such as Omega 8, which is part of the ADA MATLAB Toolboxes. Omega 8 provides a user-friendly interface for creating and customizing Sankey charts, including the ability to specify flow rates or quantities, add notes or comments, and generate reports or export data to other formats.

Additionally, there are a number of open-source alternatives available for creating Sankey charts, such as Sankey.js, which is a JavaScript library that can be used to create charts using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. These tools can be downloaded or accessed online, and are a great option for those without access to specialized software or looking to create a chart for a one-time project.

Applications of Sankey Charts

Sankey charts are used in a variety of fields, including industrial engineering, materials management, environmental science, and economic analysis. Some examples of how Sankey charts are used include:

1. Industrial Engineering: Sankey charts are often used in industrial engineering to analyze the flow of materials between different stages of a manufacturing process. By visualizing the flow rates and quantities of materials, engineers can identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and areas that require process improvement.
2. Materials Management: Sankey charts can also be used to visualize the movement of materials and goods between warehouses, suppliers, and customers. This can help companies optimize their inventory management, reduce waste, and improve the overall efficiency of their supply chain.
3. Environmental Science: Sankey charts can be used in environmental science to visualize the flow of materials and pollutants through a complex system, such as a river or an ecosystem. By analyzing the flow of materials and pollutants, researchers can identify areas where pollution is generated, and develop strategies to reduce or eliminate it.
4. Economic Analysis: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of goods and services between countries and regions, allowing economists to identify areas of trade surplus or deficit, and develop policies to promote economic growth and development.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Sankey charts are a powerful data visualization tool that can be used in a variety of fields to analyze and optimize processes, identify waste and inefficiencies, and promote resource utilization. By understanding the basics of Sankey chart creation and their applications, users can unlock the full potential of this visualization technique and improve their processes and systems.

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