Sankey charts, also known as flow diagrams or network diagrams, have emerged as a powerful visual representation tool for exploring data flow in various fields. They are particularly intuitive and effective in illustrating the intricate relationships and quantities of interconnected entities, making complex processes and data connections transparent and understandable. With their ability to visually convey data flow with color, they have become a go-to tool for data visualization enthusiasts, researchers, and professionals in business, science, and engineering. In this article, we will delve into the world of Sankey charts, examining their creation and various applications.

First, let’s grasp the concept of a Sankey chart. At its core, a Sankey diagram consists of a series of linked, graduated rectangles, with each rectangle representing a flow or transfer of a resource from one entity to another. The width of the rectangles is proportionate to the quantity or value of the flow. The color, typically used to represent specific attributes or categories, further adds depth and clarity to the visualization.

Creating a Sankey Chart:

1. Choice of Software: There are various tools available for creating Sankey charts, such as Tableau, Excel, D3.js, and online platforms like Sankey Diagrams. The choice largely depends on the complexity of the data and the level of customization required.

2. Data Preparation: Start by organizing your data in a tabular form, with columns for source, destination, quantity, and any relevant attributes. Ensure that the data is clean and properly formatted.

3. Select a Starting Point: Choose the initial entity or flow (source) and its value or quantity. This will be the foundation for the first rectangle in your Sankey chart.

4. Linkify the Data: For each transfer, draw a line or gradient between the rectangles, connecting the source to the destination. The width of the line indicates the quantity or strength of the flow.

5. Color Coding: Assign meaningful colors to represent different categories, attributes, or entities. This could be based on criteria like type, department, or stage in the process.

6. Fine-Tune: Adjust the position, size, and shape of the rectangles to create a visual harmony and maintain clarity.

Applications:

• Process Analysis: Sankey charts are often used in process mapping, to map out the flow of materials, energy, or information through a manufacturing or service process. They can help identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies.

• Supply Chain Management: In supply chains, Sankey charts can show the movement of goods, from raw materials to final products, highlighting the interactions between suppliers, manufacturers, and distributors.

• Economic Analysis: Economists use Sankey charts to visualize the distribution of money between sectors, such as government spending, private investment, or exports.

• Environmental Impact: They are excellent for presenting carbon footprints, water usage, or energy consumption in environmental studies.

• Policy Mapping: Sankey charts are used in policy-making to illustrate the flow of resources from funding sources to project outputs or beneficiaries.

• Data Synchronization: In software development, they can help track data flow between applications or systems, aiding in troubleshooting and improvement.

• Resource Allocation: Sankey charts can be used in management decisions, to determine how resources are allocated among various departments or initiatives.

In a nutshell, Sankey charts are a colorful way to dive into the ocean of data flow. With a grasp on their principles and the right tool, you can uncover valuable insights and present complex information in a clear, engaging manner. Embrace the power of Sankey diagrams and uncover the story behind your data in a visually stunning way.

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.