Sankey charts are a visual representation of flow diagrams in which the source and destination of each network are represented by lines and the volume of content flowing between these points is quantified using bars.

Sankey charts are incredibly powerful tools for analyzing complex data flows and can be used to show the relationship between the variables through different network diagrams. They have a variety of applications, including in the fields of engineering, public policy, and business. In this article, we will take a deeper dive into the world of Sankey charts to better understand how to create them and what they can be used for.

Creating a Sankey Chart

To create a Sankey chart, you will need to have the following tools:

• Graphic software such as Microsoft Excel, Adobe Illustrator, or a similar program.

• A diagram or flowchart of the data that you want to represent using a Sankey chart.

Once you have your diagram and software program chosen, you can begin to create the Sankey chart. The first step you will need to complete is to create the lines of the diagram. These lines represent the source and destination for the data flow, while the width of each line indicates the volume of data being transferred through that point. You can set the data fields on the lines using specific parameters, such as volume or percentage, which will be displayed on the chart.

Next, you will need to create vertical bars that represent the volume or amount of data flowing through a single source or destination. These bars should be arranged in a way that depicts the direction and flow of the data. For example, if you have water flowing from a basin to a river, the bars would represent the volume of water flowing from the basin to the river.

Creating a Sankey Chart

Once you have set the data fields and bar parameters, your final step is to arrange the data on the diagram and add a title and legend to reflect your data. Sankey charts can be created in various formats, including PDF, PNG, SVG, and more. Ensure you choose a format that best suits your needs and your intended audience.

When it comes to Sankey charts, it is important to ensure that they are clear and easy to understand. Avoid any technical jargon that may confuse the viewer and ensure that the layout is easy to read. Additionally, use color coding, labels, and other graphic elements to make the chart visually appealing and memorable.

Sankey Charts in Business

Sankey charts have a variety of applications in business and are used to track revenue, customer acquisition, and various other metrics. For example, a company can create a Sankey chart to track the sales of various products, and the chart would show the volume and direction of sales flow depending on when the products were launched or discontinued.

Sankey charts can also be used to track the allocation of resources in various projects or departments within a company. In this case, the chart would show the volume and direction of resource flow from one department to another, and from one type of resource to another.

Sankey Charts in Public Policy

Sankey charts can also be used to understand the complex relationships between different factors in public policy decisions. For example, a government agency can use a Sankey chart to track the allocation of funds to different projects, and the chart would show the volume and direction of funding flow.

Sankey charts can also be used to track the flow of information within a policy-making process, such as the flow of data between government agencies during the drafting and review of a bill.

Sankey Charts in Education

Sankey charts can also be used in education to track the flow of information and resources through different educational institutions and courses. The Sankey chart can show the volume and direction of information and resources flow between different institutions, and from one discipline to another.

Conclusion

Sankey charts are a powerful visual representation of data flow that can be used to track various aspects of a particular issue or project. Whether you are in the business, public policy, education, or simply interested in understanding complex data flows, making use of Sankey charts can be beneficial. With these tips, you can create a clear and effective Sankey chart that can help you understand and interpret data flows more effectively.

SankeyMaster

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