Sankey charts are a visual representation of how various components or processes relate to each other in a system or process. Created using flow diagrams, they can be used to show the flow of information, energy, or materials through a system, as well as to visualize the dependencies and interactions between two or more processes.
There are several ways to create a Sankey chart:
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Choose the appropriate scale and color scheme: Sankey charts are usually drawn with a standard scale and color scheme. For example, common scales for Sankey charts include a linear scale, a logarithmic scale, or a logarithmic-linear scale. The color scheme can be chosen based on the data being represented and the user’s preference, such as indicating the flow direction with blue and the dependencies with red.
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Plan the data flow: Sankey charts can be used to represent various data flows. For example, they can be used to represent the flow of information, energy, or materials through a system or process, as described in the previous paragraph. To plan the data flow, it is essential to determine the input and output of each component or process and the flows of information, energy, or materials between them.
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Construct the chart: Once the data flow has been planned, the Sankey chart can be constructed. Each process or component is represented by a bar or square, and the flow of information, energy, or materials between them is shown by the direction of the flow arrow. For example, if a car factory produces cars, the flow arrow would point from the raw material feed station to the car assembly line, and the flow of information would be indicated by arrows representing production information or quality control data.
Sankey charts can be very useful in understanding complex data flows, especially in industrial processes where the flow of information, energy, or materials can be quite intricate. They can help identify bottlenecks, improve resource allocation, and identify areas for improvement in the overall process. For example, a transportation agency may use a Sankey chart to analyze the flow of information required to manage a transportation system, identifying areas where bottlenecks could be addressed.
In conclusion, Sankey charts are visual representations of complex data flows created using flow diagrams. They can be used to plan and monitor the flow of information, energy, or materials through a system or process. By using the appropriate scale and color scheme and planning the data flow, Sankey charts can give users a clear visual understanding of the relationships and dependencies between processes and components. As a result, they can help improve communication, identify bottlenecks, and improve resource allocation, leading to more efficient and effective operations.
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.
