Sankey charts, also known as Sankey diagrams, are a type of flow diagram used to visualize the movement of quantities between different points. They are named after the Scottish engineer Captain Matthew Henry Phineas Riall Sankey, who used the diagram to visualize the energy usage of the High Pressure Coal Gas Works in Glasgow in 1898. Since then, sankey charts have been used in a variety of fields, including engineering, economics, and social science, to help professionals and decision-makers better understand and communicate the flow of resources or entities between different nodes.
In this article, we will provide a simple guide to creating compelling sankey charts, covering key considerations, best practices, and tips for making your diagrams stand out.
Key Considerations for Creating Sankey Diagrams
To create a compelling sankey diagram, there are several key considerations to keep in mind. Here are some of the most important factors to consider:

1. Data: The first and most important consideration when creating a sankey diagram is the data you’re trying to visualize. Your data should be structured in a way that can be easily represented in a sankey diagram, with clear input and output points that can be easily identified. You should also consider the type of flow you’re trying to visualize, as different types of flows require different visual approaches.
2. Clarity: A sankey diagram should be clear and easy to read. This means using consistent colors, sizes, and shapes for the input and output points and keeping the connections between points simple and uncluttered. You should also consider the size of your data set, as overly complex diagrams can become cluttered and difficult to understand.
3. Color: Color can be a powerful tool for enhancing the visual impact of a sankey diagram. However, it should be used sparingly and thoughtfully. You should choose colors that are visually distinct but don’t clash, and use color to highlight important data points or trends in the flow.
4. Labeling: Labels are important for making your sankey diagram readable and understandable. You should use clear and concise labels for each node and connection, and consider using legends or tooltips to provide additional context.
5. Design: Finally, when creating a sankey diagram, design is critical. The diagram should be visually appealing and easy to navigate. This means using a clean, simple design with a clear layout, and considering factors like typography, spacing, and color schemes to make the diagram visually engaging.

Best Practices for Creating Sankey Diagrams
Here are some additional best practices to consider when creating sankey diagrams:

1. Choose the right software: There are many software tools available for creating sankey diagrams, including Excel, Tableau, and R. Choose the tool that best meets your needs in terms of complexity, ease of use, and available features.
2. Use nodes and flows: A sankey diagram should clearly show the input and output points of the flow, along with the connections between them. Use nodes to represent the input and output points, and arrows to show the flow between them.
3. Highlight important connections: Use different colors, sizes, or styles to highlight important connections or trends in the flow. This can help draw the viewer’s attention to key data points or areas of interest.
4. Keep it simple: As mentioned above, overly complex sankey diagrams can be difficult to read and understand. Keep the diagram simple by limiting the number of nodes and connections, and avoid using unnecessary labels or visual elements.
5. Test and refine: Like any visual tool, a sankey diagram should be tested and refined to ensure that it effectively communicates the data it’s meant to represent. This may involve adjusting the design, reworking the data, or getting input from others to ensure that the diagram meets its intended goals.

Tips for Making Your Sankey Diagram Stand Out
Finally, here are some tips for making your sankey diagram stand out and make a compelling impact:

1. Tell a story: A sankey diagram should not only show data but also tell a story. Use the diagram to highlight key trends, patterns, or insights that help communicate a clear narrative.
2. Use icons and symbols: In addition to nodes and arrows, consider using icons and symbols to enhance the visual impact of your sankey diagram. This can help break up the visual layout and make the diagram more dynamic and engaging.
3. Incorporate interactive elements: If you’re creating a digital sankey diagram, consider incorporating interactive elements like tooltips, filters, or animations. This can help the viewer interact with the data and explore the diagram in greater depth.
4. Make it dynamic: Consider using dynamic visual elements like color gradients, animations, or other visual effects to make the diagram more visually interesting and dynamic. This can help make the diagram more engaging and memorable.

In conclusion, sankey diagrams are a powerful visual tool for visualizing and communicating the flow of entities between different nodes. By keeping key considerations in mind, following best practices, and incorporating design elements that draw attention

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