Sankey charts are a popular type of flow diagram that can be used to visualize the movement or flow of data. They are named after their creator, the Scottish engineer and inventor, Colonel William Sankey, who first developed this type of chart in the 1890s to demonstrate the flow of energy in a steam engine.
In recent years, Sankey charts have become an increasingly popular tool in the world of data visualization and storytelling, thanks to their ability to convey complex information in an easy-to-understand format. In this article, we will explore what Sankey charts are, how they are created, and their applications in visual storytelling.
What is a Sankey chart?
A Sankey chart is a type of flow diagram that displays the movement of data between different nodes or categories. Each flow of data is represented by a colored line, with the width of the line indicating the magnitude or volume of the data flow. These chart can be used to represent a range of different data flows, from energy usage to website traffic, to supply chains, and more.
Creating a Sankey chart
Creating a Sankey chart can be a complex task, as it requires a deep understanding of the data you want to visualize and the principles of data visualization. There are a few key steps to consider when creating a Sankey chart:
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Define your data: Before you can create a Sankey chart, you need to know what data you want to visualize. Choose the data that you want to highlight and organize them into categories or nodes. Determine what flows or movements of data you want to include, and decide on the units or scale of measurement you will use.
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Choose a visualization tool: There are many tools available to create Sankey charts, but some of the most popular ones include Microsoft Excel, Tableau, and Python libraries such as Plotly and Bokeh. Each tool has its own set of features and requirements, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your needs.
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Design your chart: Once you have organized your data and chosen your tool, you can begin designing your chart. This involves creating a visual hierarchy, selecting colors and line widths, and adding labels and annotations. Consider the size and layout of your chart, as well as its overall aesthetics.
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Test and refine: After creating your chart, it’s important to test it and refine it based on feedback and user testing. This may involve making changes to the design, altering the data, or adding additional features such as filtering or interactivity.
Applications in visual storytelling
Sankey charts can be used in a wide range of applications, from business to marketing to science and engineering. Here are a few examples of how Sankey charts can be used in visual storytelling:
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Showing data flow: Sankey charts are particularly useful for showing the flow of data between different nodes, such as website traffic, supply chains, or energy usage. They allow viewers to see how data moves through a system, and to compare the different flows and pathways.
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Highlighting key metrics: Sankey charts can be used to highlight specific metrics or data points, such as revenue, costs, or customer churn rates. By creating a chart that emphasizes these metrics, you can draw attention to the most important information in your data.
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Comparing different groups: Sankey charts can also be used to compare different groups or categories, such as different products, regions, or time periods. By creating multiple charts that compare different groups, you can see how the data flows and moves between them.
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Adding interactivity: In some cases, Sankey charts can be made interactive using JavaScript or other programming languages. This can allow users to filter, sort, or explore the data in more detail, enhancing the overall storytelling experience.
In conclusion, Sankey charts are a powerful tool in the world of data visualization and storytelling. They can be used to create clear and accessible visual representations of complex data flows, and can help highlight key metrics, compare different groups, and provide a more holistic view of your data. By following the steps outlined above and using the right tools and techniques, you can create compelling Sankey charts that effectively communicate your message and engage your audience.
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