Flowing Data: The Art & Science of Sankey Diagrams
Sankey diagrams have been a staple of engineers, scientists, and decision-makers for decades. These diagrams offer a unique way of visualizing the flow of energy, materials, or information through a system, making it easier to understand complex interdependencies. Flowing Data delves into the art and science of creating Sankey diagrams, exploring their significance and applications across various fields.
The History of Sankey Diagrams
Sankey diagrams were first introduced by English engineer William Playfair in 1848. Named after a sanitary engineer named Edward John Langley (EJ) Sankey, who popularized their use in the 1880s, Sankey diagrams have evolved over time. They were initially used to monitor the efficiency of steam engines but have since found applications in fields ranging from environmental science to economics.
The Art of Sankey Diagram Design
The art of creating a Sankey diagram lies in the visual representation of flow, which can sometimes be tricky. Here are the key design principles to keep in mind:
- Flowing Stream Lines: The primary feature of a Sankey diagram is the stream line that represents the flow of matter, energy, or information.
- Width Variation: The width of the stream lines indicates the magnitude of the flow. Larger widths signify higher flow rates, while narrower widths represent lower rates.
- Parallel Lines: Ensure that stream lines of the same type remain parallel throughout the diagram, signifying consistent pathways.
- Direction: Always use a consistent direction for flow, typically from the source to the sink of the system.
- Labels and Annotations: Clearly label the diagrams with relevant information and include annotations where necessary to clarify any complex parts of the system.
The Science Behind Sankey Diagrams
Creating an accurate and informative Sankey diagram requires understanding the underlying system you are portraying. Key aspects of the science behind Sankey diagrams include:
- Data Collection: Gather data that represents the flow within the system. For example, energy flow diagrams require data on energy input and output, energy conversion rates, and loss due to inefficiency.
- Choice of Scale: Select an appropriate scale for the diagram based on the magnitude of the data. Wide ranges of values can make diagrams difficult to read.
- Normalization: Normalizing data by the total quantity of flow ensures that the diagram represents relative values, making comparisons more straightforward.
- Efficiency Representation: Use a gradient or color scale to represent the efficiency of the system. This allows for the easy identification of bottlenecks and inefficiencies.
Applications of Sankey Diagrams
Sankey diagrams have found widespread application in multiple fields:
Energy Systems
Energy flow diagrams are widely used in the evaluation and management of energy consumption and production. They help identify areas of inefficiency and guide the optimization of energy systems.
Environmental Science
Sankey diagrams are indispensable in environmental studies for evaluating the flow of pollutants, energy consumption, and carbon emissions.
Industrial Design
During the design phase, Sankey diagrams help engineers assess the energy requirements and efficiency of manufacturing processes, making them key tools in industrial design.
Economics
Business analysts often use Sankey diagrams to visualize the flow of money, information, and materials in supply chains and economic models.
Data Visualization and Communication
Sankey diagrams serve as powerful tools for data visualization, helping to communicate complex data and relationships in a clear, intuitive manner.
Conclusion
Sankey diagrams offer a unique perspective on flow within systems, striking a balance between art and science. By following the principles of design and incorporating the relevant scientific data, one can create informative, visually appealing Sankey diagrams. These diagrams have become a vital part of understanding and improving the efficiency and effectiveness of systems across various industries, making them an indispensable tool for the flow of data in today’s data-driven world.
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.
