Sankey charts are a powerful and flexible data visualization tool for exploring and understanding process flows. They are particularly useful for analyzing the flow of materials, energy, or information through a system or process. In this article, we will explore how to create Sankey charts, as well as some of the many applications of this data visualization technique.
What is a Sankey Chart?
A Sankey chart is a type of flowchart that uses directed arrows to represent the flow of materials, energy, or information through a process. Each arrow is labeled with a value that indicates the amount of flow at that point in the process. The chart is named after its creator, Dr. Helmut Sankey, a German engineer and statistician who developed the tool in the 1960s.
How to Create a Sankey Chart
There are several software tools available for creating Sankey charts, including:
- Lucidchart
- Smartsheet
- Creately
- Draw.io
To create a Sankey chart using Lucidchart, for example, you can follow these steps:
- Sign up for a free account and select the “Sankey chart” template from the chart dropdown menu.
- Add the nodes and directed edges to the chart by clicking and dragging.
- Configure each node by adding a label and value.
- Customize the appearance of the chart by adjusting the colors, fonts, and layout.
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Applications of Sankey Charts
Sankey charts have a wide range of applications, particularly in the fields of engineering, logistics, and finance. Some of the most common use cases include:
Engineering
- Process flow analysis for manufacturing or assembly lines
- Materials flow analysis for supply chain management
- Energy flow analysis for renewable energy systems
- Water flow analysis for irrigation systems or hydrology
Logistics
- Route planning and optimization
- Inventory management
- Fleet management
- Supply chain performance measurement
Finance
- Investment portfolio analysis
- Credit risk analysis
- Forecasting demand for financial products
Social sciences
- Network analysis for social media or online communities
- Information diffusion analysis
- Transmission dynamics in epidemiology
In summary, Sankey charts are a valuable tool for visualizing and analyzing complex process flows. They can be used in a variety of industries and disciplines to gain insights into the performance and efficiency of processes, identify areas for improvement, and support decision-making.
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.
