Sankey charts are a data visualization tool that uses a network of lines to show how different elements flow through one another. This type of chart is particularly well-suited for visualizing complex dataflows, which can be messy and difficult to organize and interpret. In this article, we’ll explore how to create a sankey chart, and some of the applications of this type of chart.
Step 1: Choose Your Data
The first step in creating a sankey chart is to choose the data you want to visualize. This can be any type of data, but in most cases, it will be a flow of data between one or more elements. For example, you might want to visualize a flow of data between different departments or areas of an organization, or between different regions of a city.
Step 2: Organize Your Data
Once you’ve chosen your data, the next step is to organize it into a format suitable for creating a sankey chart. This means drawing a network of lines that show how the data flows. You’ll need to decide where each element will be placed on the chart, and then connect those elements using the lines that show how they flow through one another.
Step 3: Draw the Chart
With your data organized and your lines drawn, you’re ready to create the sankey chart. You can use a data visualization tool or software to create your chart, or you can create it manually on paper and then transfer it to a digital tool. The key thing is to keep the flow of data looking clean and clear, and to make sure that the connections between different elements are easy to follow.
Use Cases
Sankey charts are a versatile tool for visualizing complex dataflows. They are commonly used in a variety of fields, including finance, marketing, and engineering. Some specific use cases for sankey charts include:
- Flowcharts: Sankey charts can be used to create flowcharts for understanding how information flows through a piece of software or system.
- Product flows: Sankey charts can be used to visualize sales and purchasing data for a product or service.
- Manufacturing data: Sankey charts are useful for visualizing how materials flow through a production line or how parts flow from one stage to another.
- Resource flows: Sankey charts are particularly useful for visualizing how resources flow through an organization, such as between departments or teams.
Conclusion
Sankey charts are a powerful tool for visualizing complex dataflows. By creating a clear and simple network of lines, you can easily understand how different elements flow through one another. Whether you’re working on a small project or a large organization, sankey charts can help you communicate your ideas more clearly and effectively.
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.
