In this world of data, it’s essential to understand how to chart and visualize complex data. One such way to do that is by using a Sankey chart. A Sankey chart, also known as a fork diagram, is a flow diagram that shows the flow of a quantity or something more complex between different sources and sinks. In this article, we’ll explore the concept of Sankey charts, how they work, and their applications.

The first thing to keep in mind about a Sankey chart is that it’s a visual representation of the flow of a quantity or something more complex between different sources and sinks. The key elements of a Sankey chart include a container for the quantity being represented, multiple source and sink nodes, and arrow direction to determine the flow of the quantity.

Sankey charts are particularly useful when you’re dealing with complex data and relationships. For instance, in a supply chain, you might have multiple suppliers, factories, warehouses, and consumers. In this case, a Sankey chart can be used to represent how the quantity of products is moving between different nodes in the supply chain.

Here’s a simple example of a Sankey chart for a hypothetical supply chain:


Source: Supplies
Destination: Shipment
Consumer


In this diagram, the supply chain network is represented by multiple nodes (sources and destinations), and arrows connecting them show the flow of products between them. The quantity representing the flow of the product is shown in the container in the middle.

Sankey charts are also useful in the domain of engineering and manufacturing. For instance, in the process of production, you might have multiple machines, tools, and staff involved in the production process. A Sankey chart can help you visualize the flow of materials and resources between different machines, tools, and staff.

In my opinion, here are some more commonly used Sankey charts:

1. Sankey Charts for Projects: In projects management, Sankey charts can help you visualize the flow of resources, and the flow of work from tasks to team members.

2. Sankey Charts for Logistics and Supply Chain management: Sankey charts can help you visualize the flow of products and supplies between different nodes in the supply chain.

3. Sankey Charts for Education: It can also be used for planning and tracking of educational projects, classes, and students.

So, to summarize, Sankey charts are a visual tool that can help you represent the complex relationships between different nodes in your data, making them easier to understand and analyze. The different applications of Sankey charts are in supply chain, production, education, healthcare, logistics, engineering, and many others.

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.