Sankey charts are a type of diagram that are often used to show complex relationships between different entities in a system. They are named after the Sankey river that runs through the city of Sankey, England.
Sankey charts work by connecting the nodes of a graph with lines that represent the direction and flow of a relationship between them. The nodes typically represent different entities, such as people, objects, or processes, while the lines show the flow of information or resources between them. Because of this, they are highly useful in illustrating complex systems and relationships.
In this article, we will explore the magic of sankey charts and the different ways they can be used to understand complex relationships.
- Understanding the Basics of a Sankey Chart
A sankey chart typically consists of a network diagram, with nodes representing different entities or processes, and arrows connecting them to form a flow of information or resources. Each arrow represents a bidirectional flow of information or resources, and the length of the arrow shows the amount of flow. The top of the diagram typically represents the starting point or origin of the flow, while the bottom represents the end point or destination.
Sankey charts can be used for a wide range of applications, including business operations, government planning, and scientific research. They can also be used to show the flow of resources or energy in environmental or resource management systems.
To create a sankey chart, you can use software such as Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, or Adobe Illustrator. These programs offer a variety of tools for designing sankey diagrams, including the ability to add text, color, and formatting to make them more visually appealing. - How Sankey Charts Work
The basic concept behind a sankey chart is a flow of information or resources between nodes. Each node can represent a process, object or person, and each arrow between nodes represents a bidirectional flow of information or resources between them. The length of the arrow shows the amount of flow in each direction.
To create a sankey chart, you need to label each node with the entity it represents, and connect them to each other with lines. The direction of the arrow shows the flow of information or resources, and the length of the arrow shows the amount of flow in that direction. - Common Uses of Sankey Charts
Sankey charts can be used in a variety of fields to illustrate complex relationships between entities. In business operations, they can be used to show the flow of information between departments or the flow of goods between different supply chains. In government planning, they can be used to illustrate the flow of resources between different agencies or departments. In scientific research, they can be used to show the flow of information between different components of a system, such as the flow of nutrients in an ecosystem or the flow of information in a process. - Tips for Using Sankey Charts
To make your sankey chart more effective, there are a few tips you can follow:
- Start with a clear understanding of the entities you are trying to represent, and the relationships between them.
- Use labels to clearly indicate each entity and the flow of information or resources.
- Use colors and formatting to make your sankey chart more visually appealing and easier to read.
- Consider using animations or interactive elements to make your sankey chart more engaging and educational for your audience.
In conclusion, sankey charts are a powerful tool for understanding complex relationships and systems. They can be used in a wide range of fields and can help you visualize the flow of information or resources between different entities. If you are looking to create your own sankey chart, you can use one of the many software programs available to help you get started.
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.
