Sankey diagrams, first introduced in the late 19th century, have become a powerful tool in data visualization. Originating from their use in displaying energy flow in steam engines, they are now widely employed across various fields to depict complex flows between variables. Sankey charts enable the visualization of quantities flowing from one value to another. They are particularly useful in understanding the relationships between different variables and the flow of information. This article explores how to create a Sankey chart and discusses its applications.
Creating Your Own Sankey Chart
Gathered: Source Data
Before diving into the creation of a Sankey chart, it’s essential to have or gather your source data. This typically involves two or more sets of numbers representing the flow or transformation between categories. The data should be in the form of a table, with columns representing the starting points or sources of flows and the final points or destinations. The rows should represent the magnitude of each flow.
Step 1: Preparing Data
The first step involves arranging your data in a specific format. This often means having at least three columns: the first with your starting categories, the second with your ending categories, and the third with the magnitudes of the flows. Other optional columns might include categories for intermediate steps, labels for each end point, or additional metadata. For a simple Sankey diagram, focusing on start and end points is enough.
Step 2: Selecting Tools
Typically, Sankey diagrams are created using data visualization tools. There are two primary options: software-based applications and programming languages. Software-based tools like Tableau, Microsoft Excel, or QGIS might come with pre-built Sankey diagram templates, simplifying the process for beginners. For those with programming experience or preference, libraries such as Python’s plotly, matplotlib, and seaborn offer the flexibility to create complex Sankey diagrams from scratch.
Step 3: Customizing and Visualizing
Once set up, most tools allow customization of the visual aspects of your Sankey chart. This includes adjusting the width of the flow lines (representing magnitude) and color coding for each category. Adding labels where necessary, including categories and magnifications, enhances the readability.
Applications of Sankey Charts
Sankey diagrams are versatile and can be applied across a wide range of contexts:
Energy and Environmental Analysis
Environmental scientists and engineers use Sankey diagrams to visualize the energy flow through a system or energy transactions through various stages, like a power plant. These diagrams help in understanding energy conversion efficiencies and waste.
Social Media Data Analysis
Market analysts use Sankey diagrams to visualize user engagement patterns across different platforms or products. By tracking users’ movements from one platform to another or product to another, they can identify trends and potential gaps in their offering.
Supply Chain Management
Sankey diagrams are invaluable in supply chain management. They visually represent the movement of products through different stages or between different entities within the supply chain. This insight is crucial for optimizing the supply chain for efficiency and reducing waste.
Customer Journey Analysis
Similar to social media analysis, businesses use Sankey diagrams to track customer interactions with products or services. By understanding customer flow from one interaction with the brand to the next, companies can design more effective customer experiences and retention strategies.
Conclusion
Sankey charts have evolved from their initial steam engine use to become a potent tool in data visualization. By turning raw data into visually striking stories, these diagrams help in making complex data comprehensible and actionable. Whether in environmental studies, social media engagement, supply chain management, or customer journey analysis, Sankey diagrams offer a unique lens to explore and understand the flow of information. With the right tools and a bit of creativity, you too can harness the power of these charts to unlock insights from your data.
SankeyMaster
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