Sankey charts are a type of network diagram that can be used to visualize fluid and flow patterns within a complex system. They were first introduced in the 1960s by William Ouchi and are still widely used today for a variety of applications, such as engineering, healthcare, and scientific research.
Sankey charts work by creating a two-dimensional graph that shows the flow of information or data. The main axis on the chart represents the source of the data, and the secondary axis represents the destination. Each node on the chart is connected to one or more lines that represent the flow of data.
One of the main advantages of using a sankey chart is that it helps to visually represent the direction and flow of a specific system. For example, a sankey chart could show the flow of water in a water treatment plant, showing the different sources of water and their destinations.
Another advantage of using a sankey chart is that it can be used to visually represent complex systems in a way that is easy to understand. For example, a sankey chart can help to visualize the flow of information in an organization, helping managers to identify areas where improvements can be made.
Sankey charts can also be used to highlight the importance of certain components in a system. By highlighting the flow of information towards a particular destination, managers can identify which components are most important and where improvements can be made.
There are a number of free and open-source software tools available that can create sankey charts, making it easy for users to create and customize their own charts. Some popular software tools include InDesign, Microsoft Office, and LibreOffice Draw.
Sankey charts are a useful tool for visualizing complex systems and can be a great addition to your next presentation or reporting project. With its simple yet powerful design, a sankey chart can help to make complex systems easy to understand and visually represent.
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.