Sankey diagrams are highly efficient at visually representing the flow of a system from one point to another. Whether you are analyzing the energy distribution in a complex network or tracking the distribution of goods in the supply chain, Sankey charts provide a comprehensive view. In this guide, we will delve into the intricacies of creating, using, and crafting effective Sankey charts, showcasing best practices and common pitfalls.
### Introduction to Sankey Charts
Sankey diagrams are named after their creator, Maximilian Sankey, who introduced them as a tool for showing the distribution and consumption of coal in the United Kingdom in 1898. Since then, they have found a variety of applications across industries due to their unique ability to effectively display processes where there is a flow of material, energy, or information.
### Design Elements of Sankey Charts
#### 1. Dimensions and Orientation
Firstly, the dimensions of the Sankey chart are extremely important. They should be large enough to illustrate the complex relationships without becoming cluttered. The orientation of the chart—horizontal or vertical—can be chosen based on the nature of the data and the most intuitive presentation for your audience.
#### 2. Flow Direction and Path
Each Sankey chart has a specific direction that the flows should move in, usually from left to right or top to bottom. The paths or branches represent the movement or flow of materials, energy, or information through the system.
#### 3. Widths and Labeling
The width of the arrows in the Sankey chart represents the quantity of flow—thicker arrows signify a higher flow rate. Labels should be clear and concise, providing insight into each component’s role and its contribution to the overall system.
#### 4. Color and Themes
Using a consistent color scheme and theme can aid the viewer in identifying patterns quickly. The correct use of color adds clarity while also avoiding unnecessary visual noise.
### Best Practices for Creating Sankey Charts
#### 1. Balance and Scaling
Ensure that your Sankey chart is balanced. If the flow rates of different branches vary significantly, this can make the chart difficult to read. You may need to normalize the data to maintain a consistent scale.
#### 2. Avoiding Over-Complexity
Keep the chart simple and focused. Clutter can lead to misinterpretation. Limit the number of elements and use a simple background to prevent distractions.
#### 3. Using High-Quality Data
Ensure that the data underpinning your Sankey chart is accurate and up-to-date. Misleading charts can lead to incorrect conclusions.
#### 4. Incorporating Interactivity
For more complex Sankey diagrams, consider adding interactivity, allowing users to zoom into parts of the chart or click on items to explore deeper information.
### Common Mistakes to Avoid
It is equally important to be aware of the common mistakes people make while creating Sankey charts:
#### 1. Inappropriate Scaling
Avoid using too much scaling, as this can exaggerate minor differences and downplay major ones. Similarly, be careful not to compress the flow lines too tightly, which can distort the relationships between different elements.
#### 2. Lack of Context
It’s crucial that the Sankey chart provides enough context to be understood on its own. The accompanying description should highlight the key insights that can be drawn from the diagram.
#### 3. Overlooking Important Details
Ensure all relevant data is included. Some analysts may skip certain elements to make the chart appear cleaner, but this could lead to missing critical insights.
### Conclusion
Sankey charts are a powerful tool for communicating the flow of materials, energy, and information. By following this guide to design, use, and best practices, you can create effective Sankey charts that convey your data’s narrative clearly and effectively. Always remember that a well-executed Sankey chart is a valuable asset that can significantly enhance your analysis and presentation of complex data flows.
