Flow Vision: Unleashing the Power of Sankey Charts for Process Optimization

Sankey charts are a type of flowchart that is useful for visualizing and optimizing processes. They are particularly useful for identifying and reducing bottlenecks in a process, as well as for understanding the flow of materials, information, or other resources through a system. In this article, we will explore the basics of Sankey chart creation, as well as some real-world examples of how they can be used to optimize processes.

What is a Sankey Chart?

A Sankey chart is a flowchart that uses a series of interconnected circles to represent the flow of materials, energy, or information through a system. The chart is named after the Dutch engineer Pranses Sankey, who developed the technique in the 1930s.

Sankey charts are particularly useful for identifying bottlenecks and other areas for process improvement. They can be used to visualize the flow of materials through a manufacturing process, for example, to identify areas where materials may be bottle-necked or delayed. They can also be used to visualize the flow of information through a system, such as the transfer of knowledge from one team to another.

How to Create a Sankey Chart

Sankey charts can be created using a variety of flowcharting tools, such as Microsoft Visio, Lucidchart, or Draw.io. These tools provide a range of templates and shapes that can be used to create the different elements of the chart, such as the interconnected circles and arrows.

To create a Sankey chart, follow these steps:

1. Open your flowcharting tool and select the template or shape for the first circle or node in the chart.
2. Use the tool to draw the circles and arrows to connect them, and label each circle with a brief description of the process it represents.
3. Arrange the circles and arrows in a way that makes sense for the process you are visualizing.
4. Customize the chart as needed, such as adding comments or details.
5. Save and export the chart as needed.

Applications of Sankey Charts

There are many different ways that Sankey charts can be used to optimize processes. Some examples include:

1. Identifying bottlenecks: Sankey charts can be used to identify the areas of a process where materials or information are delayed, and to determine whether there are ways to improve the flow through those areas.
2. Reducing lead times: By identifying and reducing bottlenecks, Sankey charts can help to reduce the overall lead time of a process, which can improve efficiency and reduce costs.
3. Improving resource utilization: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of resources, such as materials or personnel, through a process, and to identify areas where resources may be underused or overused.
4. Enhancing process safety: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of hazardous materials or other dangerous substances through a process, and to identify potential risks and areas for improvement.

By understanding the basics of Sankey chart creation and learning how they can be used to optimize processes, you can gain powerful insights into your systems and improve their efficiency and effectiveness.

SankeyMaster

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