Sankey charts are a type of visualization that allow you to visualize complex data flow in a clear and easy-to-understand manner. This type of chart is particularly useful in situations where you want to show the flow of a certain resource or process.
In this article, we will discuss how to create a sankey chart, the different applications of sankey charts, and some tips on creating effective sankey charts.
Step 1: Define the Data You Want to Visualize
The first step in creating a sankey chart is to define the data you want to visualize. This data should be organized in a way that allows us to create a clear and readable chart that accurately represents the flow of the data.
For example, if you want to visualize the flow of water through a city water supply system, you would need to define the data in a way that shows the flow of water from its source to its destination. You may also want to include additional information, such as the amount of water flowing through each section, the time it takes for the water to flow through each section, and any specific sources or destinations of the water.
Step 2: Choose the Right Format and Layout
Once you have defined the data, you need to choose the right chart format and layout. A sankey chart is best suited for representing complex data flow in a visual format, so it is important to choose a format that is easy to read and understand.
One option is to use a Sankey diagram, which is a type of network diagram that has a series of boxes or nodes connected by lines. This type of chart is particularly useful for showing the flow of a process in a step-by-step manner.
Another option is to use a Sankey chart, which is a type of diagram that shows the flow of data through a series of nodes. This type of chart is particularly useful when you want to represent complex data flow in a visual format and can include additional information, such as the amount of flow through each section and the time it takes for the data to flow through each section.
Step 3: Choose the Right Colors and Labels
Once you have chosen the right chart format and layout, you need to choose the right colors and labels. Sankey charts are best suited for representing complex data flow in a visual format, so it is important to choose colors that are easy to distinguish and labels that are clear and easy to understand.
It is also important to consider the flow direction of the data and to use colors that match the flow direction. For example, if the diagram represents the flow of water from a source to a destination, the colors would be different for each direction.
Step 4: Create a Sankey Chart
To create your sankey chart, you can use software tools such as Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, or even a simple text editor. To create a sankey chart, you will need to define the source nodes, the destination nodes, and the flow lines. Once you have defined the data and the chart format and layout, you can use the software tool to create your sankey chart.
Finally, save your sankey chart in a format that can be displayed on all devices, such as PDF or PNG.
Applications of Sankey Charts
Sankey charts are widely used in a variety of fields, including physics, biology, economics, and social sciences. They are useful in situations where you want to visualize complex data flow in a clear and readable format, such as:
- Water supply systems: to visualize the flow of water from its source to its destination
- Manufacturing processes: to visualize the flow of materials and products through a manufacturing process
- Energy distribution networks: to visualize the flow of energy resources, such as electricity or natural gas, through a distribution network
- Product development: to visualize the flow of ideas, resources, and actions in a project
- Supply chain systems: to visualize the flow of products or services through a supply chain
Overall, sankey charts are a useful tool for visualizing complex data flow in a clear and easy-to-understand manner. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create effective sankey charts that help you better understand and analyze the flow of data.
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.
