Sankey charts are a type of data visualization that can be used to represent flow and connectivity between different variables. They are called Sankey charts because they were first introduced by the Scottish engineer and inventor William Sankey in the late 19th century. These charts are widely used in a variety of fields, including energy, engineering, economics, and sociology, to name a few, to visualize the flow of resources or information between different nodes in a system.
Creating a Sankey chart involves several steps, starting with gathering and organizing your data. You will need to identify the nodes in your system and the flow of materials or data between them. It’s crucial to have a clear understanding of your data as this will dictate the structure and layout of your chart.
To create a Sankey chart, there are specialized software tools available that can simplify the process. The two major categories for using these tools are:
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Desktop Applications: Software like Microsoft Power BI, Tableau, and Qlik Sense offer visual tools to help create Sankey diagrams. These provide pre-made templates and easy-to-use drag-and-drop capabilities to arrange data in the chart. They often have the added feature of automated sizing of links and nodes, and they also have robust formatting options for color, labels, and tooltips.
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Code-based Libraries: For developers and programmers, libraries like Sankey.js, d3.js, and Matplotlib (in Python) allow creation using HTML, JavaScript for web-based interactive charts, or Python for data science applications. These platforms provide more control over the visual aesthetics and interactivity but require prior knowledge in coding.
In applying Sankey charts to various fields:
Energy Field
Sankey diagrams are particularly useful in the energy sector to show the flow of electricity, fuels, or other energy sources. This provides insights into the efficiency of energy transfer within a system, allowing policymakers, engineers, and renewable energy enthusiasts to understand the lifecycle and distribution patterns effectively.
Economics and Business
In economics and business, Sankey charts help visualize trade flows, revenue streams, and supply chains between companies or countries. It aids stakeholders in identifying which components contribute the most to revenue or efficiency, thereby guiding strategic decisions.
Engineering and Architecture
Engineering firms apply Sankey charts to represent flows within complex systems like water drainage systems, HVAC operations, or in the distribution of goods. This assists engineers in optimizing system design and operation while providing a clear explanation to stakeholders on how the system works.
Computer Science and Data Engineering
In tech sectors, Sankey diagrams illustrate data flow through networks and software processes. In database management, they can help in identifying bottlenecks in data processing or identifying the most common data pathways within a database system.
Decision-Making in Government and Non-Profit
Government entities and NGOs might use Sankey charts to understand resource allocation across different departments or programs, showcasing which areas are most efficiently utilizing funds or how information pathways might impact public services.
Ultimately, the power of Sankey charts lies in their ability to transform abstract movements into visually compelling narrative, making complex connections easier to grasp. When used appropriately, these charts can reveal patterns, highlight inefficiencies, or even uncover new opportunities. Whether you’re analyzing energy flows, optimizing business processes, or creating information pathways in digital projects, the Sankey chart remains a versatile and innovative tool for data visualization.
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.
