Sankey charts are a powerful and flexible way to visualize data flow and transformation. They are especially useful for showing the movement of data between different entities or stages in a process. In this article, we will explore how to create Sankey charts and the many ways they can be used to gain insights and improve decision-making.

What is a Sankey Chart?

A Sankey chart is a type of flowchart that is used to show the movement of data between different entities or stages in a process. It is named after the Dutch engineer and statistician Rudolf Sankey, who developed the chart in the late 19th century.

Sankey charts are particularly useful for visualizing data flow and transformation because they allow you to easily see how data moves between different stages or entities in a process. They also provide a clear visual representation of the relationships between these entities, making it easy to understand the overall flow of data.

How to Create a Sankey Chart

Creating a Sankey chart is relatively straightforward, although it does require some knowledge of charting software. Here is a general overview of the steps involved:

1. Open your charting software (such as Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, or specialized charting software like Sankey Flowchart).
2. Enter the data that you want to visualize in your chart. This may include information about the flow of data between different entities or stages in a process.
3. Choose the type of Sankey chart that you want to create. There are several different types of Sankey charts available, each with its own set of features and capabilities.
4. Customize your chart by adjusting the colors, shapes, and other visual elements to fit your needs.
5. Preview your chart to make sure that it looks the way you want it to before finalizing it.
6. Export your chart as a image or document, or save it to your local storage so that you can use it later.

Applications of Sankey Charts

Sankey charts are a versatile tool that can be used in a wide range of applications, including:

1. Process mapping: Sankey charts can be used to map out the flow of data between different stages in a process, helping you identify potential bottlenecks and areas for improvement.
2. Data analysis: Sankey charts can be used to visualize data flows and transformations, making it easier to identify patterns and trends in your data.
3. Project management: Sankey charts can be used to track the flow of work between different stages in a project, helping you identify potential risks and areas for optimization.
4. Supply chain management: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of goods and services through a supply chain, helping you identify potential bottlenecks and areas for improvement.
5. Marketing analysis: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of customers through a marketing campaign, helping you identify potential areas for optimization.
6. Financial analysis: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of cash through a business, helping you identify potential areas for optimization and forecasting future cash flows.
7. Social Media Analytics : Sankey Chart is useful for tracking the engagement flow on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, identifying key influencers, and understanding consumer sentiment over time.
8. Traffic flow analysis: Sankey Chart is also useful for analyzing traffic flow in cities, helping planners identify potential bottlenecks and areas for improvement in traffic management systems.
9. Environmental management: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of waste or pollutants through an environmental system, helping you identify potential areas for improvement and pollution hotspots.

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.