Sankey charts are a type of flowchart that are used to visualize data flow and identify opportunities. They are particularly useful in managing and optimizing complex systems, such as supply chain operations or financial transactions. In this article, we will explore the basics of Sankey chart creation, as well as some of the ways in which they can be used to gain insights and improve business processes.

What is a Sankey Chart?

A Sankey chart is a type of flowchart that is named after the Dutch statistician and geographer Louis Sankey. These charts are particularly useful for visualizing data flow and identifying opportunities for improvement. They are used to represent the flow of material, energy, or information between different components of a system.

One of the key features of Sankey charts is that they allow you to easily see which components of a system are generating the most flow, as well as which components are consuming the most flow. This can be particularly useful for identifying opportunities for improvement, such as reducing waste or improving efficiency.

How to Create a Sankey Chart

Creating a Sankey chart is relatively straightforward. You will need to gather data on the flow of material, energy, or information between different components of a system. You will also need to have a software tool that can create Sankey charts, such as Microsoft Excel, Lucidchart, or Visio.

To create a Sankey chart, follow these steps:

1. Import your data into a software tool that can create Sankey charts.
2. Create a new Sankey chart template by selecting “Sankey chart” from the chart type dropdown menu.
3. Add the components of your system to the chart, and connect them using arrows to represent the flow of material, energy, or information.
4. Customize the chart as needed, such as adding labels or adjusting the size and position of the chart.
5. Distribute the chart to members of your team to gain insights and identify opportunities for improvement.

Applications of Sankey Charts

There are many different applications for Sankey charts. Some examples include:

• Supply chain management: Sankey charts are useful for visualizing the flow of materials, products, or information through a supply chain. They allow you to see which components of the chain are generating the most flow, as well as which components are consuming the most flow, which can help you identify opportunities for improvement.
• Financial analysis: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of money or other financial instruments through a system. This can help you identify opportunities for improving efficiency or reducing waste.
• Environmental management: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of materials, energy, or other resources through an environmental system. This can help you identify opportunities for reducing waste or improving energy efficiency.

In conclusion, Sankey charts are a useful tool for visualizing data flow and identifying opportunities for improvement. They are particularly useful in complex systems, such as supply chain operations or financial transactions. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create and use Sankey charts to gain insights and optimize your business processes.

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