Introduction
Sankey charts are a type of visualization tool that is widely used in network analysis. These charts are particularly useful when analyzing complex, interrelated networks. In this article, we will explore the power of sankey charts and provide a visual guide to creating and understanding them.
What are Sankey Charts?
Sankey charts, also known as node flow diagrams, are a type of network visualization tool that is often used in fields such as economics, sociology, and engineering. They are created by drawing in a line for each element of a network, with the line’s length representing the amount of the element. Sankey charts are also often used to represent flow networks, where each element has a flow value.
How to Create a Sankey Chart
Creating a sankey chart is relatively simple, with multiple steps. First, you need to define your data structure, which is a representation of your network. The structure allows you to define the elements and their flow values. Once you have defined your structure, you can begin to plot the sankey chart. Start by drawing the elements, connecting them and defining their flows. Finally, use the properties of the sankey chart to show how the flow is distributed, such as the color, thickness, and shape.
Applications
Sankey charts are widely used in various fields, especially in fields related to network analysis. Here are some of the most common applications of sankey charts:
-
Economics: Sankey charts are often used to represent economic networks, such as supply chains. In this type of network, the sankey chart can show the flow of goods and services through the network.
-
Engineering: In engineering networks, such as communication systems, sankey charts can represent the flow of data through a network. This type of network can include elements such as transmitters, receivers and routers, and can be used to show the flow of data from transmitting equipment to receiving equipment.
-
Social Sciences: Sankey charts can be used to represent social networks, such as academic and professional networks. In these types of networks, the sankey chart can show the flow of information and contacts within a network.
-
Health Sciences: Sankey charts can also be used to represent health networks, such as the flow of disease progression through a community. In these types of networks, the sankey chart can show the flow of patients, healthcare resources, and clinical care.
Conclusion
Sankey charts are a useful tool for visualizing complex, interrelated networks. They can be used to represent any type of network analysis, from economic networks to health networks, and can be used to show flow through these networks. With a little practice, you can create simple sankey charts to understand how networks work, as well as more complex charts to visualize complex networks.
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.
