Sankey charts are a type of diagram that are used to visualize dependencies between different elements. These diagrams are particularly useful in representing complex data sets in an easily understandable way. In this article, we will take a deeper look at what a sankey chart is, how it is created, and some of the common applications of sankey charts. We will also provide some tips on how to interpret sankey charts and identify their key elements.
A Sankey Chart
A sankey chart is a type of diagram that is used to visualize dependencies between different elements. It consists of a network of lines that are interconnected by dots, and it is typically used to represent relationships between different data points. The basic elements of a sankey diagram are the lines that connect the dots, which represent the causation, and the dots that represent the results, or the impact of the relationship.
Sankey Charts Applications
Sankey charts are commonly used in a variety of fields, from engineering and science to business and social sciences. This is because sankeys are a powerful tool for visualizing the relationships between different elements and are easy to read and understand. Some of the most common applications of sankey charts include:
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Engineering: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the dependencies between different components in an engineering system, making it easier to identify potential failures and design efficient systems.
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Business: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the dependencies between different elements of a business model, such as sales, production, and marketing, making it easier to identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies.
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Social Sciences: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the relationships between different social groups or industries, enabling policymakers to identify potential points of conflict and promote cooperation.
Creating a Sankey Chart
Creating a sankey chart is relatively easy, especially if you have a basic understanding of web design and data visualization. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to create a sankey chart:
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Gather your data: You will need to gather data that you want to visualize in a sankey chart. This data should consist of the source and target nodes for each connection, as well as the amount of data exchanged between them.
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Create your diagram: Once you have gathered your data, you can begin creating your sankey chart. The most common tool for creating sankey charts is the Google Sheet. On the right-hand side of the sheet, you will see a “Diagram” tab. Choose “sankey” from the drop-down menu and select the graph format. You will then need to enter the key elements of your sankey chart: the source node, the target node, and the connecting line. Repeat this process for the rest of your sankey nodes.
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Customize your sankey chart: Once your sankey chart is complete, you can customize it to make it look good. For example, you can choose a different color scheme for your nodes and line. You can also adjust the size and thickness of your nodes and lines to make them look more readable.
Interpreting a Sankey Chart
Interpreting a sankey chart requires a basic understanding of data visualization and the relationships between elements. When interpreting a sankey chart, you should consider the following elements:
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Source nodes: A source node is a node that represents the beginning of a relationship between elements.
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Target nodes: A target node is a node that represents the end of a relationship between elements.
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Connection lines: A connection line is a line connecting the source and target nodes.
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Data points: The amount of data exchanged between source and target nodes represents the weight of the connection line.
By knowing what these elements represent, you can interpret the information contained within a sankey chart and use it to make informed decisions. We hope this article has provided a more in-depth look at what a sankey chart is, how it is created, common applications, and tips on how to interpret them.
SankeyMaster
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