Sankey charts are a graphical representation of flows between connected variables, typically used to visualize processes or systems where resources or energy are transferred from one source to another. These charts make it easy to see the magnitude and direction of flows, as well as how they are distributed across various components. In this article, we’ll explore the basics of Sankey chart creation and discuss some of their key applications in various fields.

What are Sankey Charts?

Sankey charts feature rectangular nodes that represent categories or inputs/outputs and connecting links (often arrows) that convey the volume of flow between these categories. The width of the links is proportional to the amount of flow they represent, providing a visual cue to the relative quantities.

Creating a Sankey Chart

To create a Sankey chart, you’ll need data that includes:
– Categories (inputs and outputs)
– Volumes (amounts of flow or transactions per category)
– Origins and destinations (sources and recipients of the flow)
– Direction (which category a flow comes from and goes to)

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Data Preparation: Gather your data in a format that includes headers for categories, origins, destinations, and volumes. Common spreadsheet formats that can be used for this purpose include CSV or Excel files.

2. Choose Your Tool: Select a tool or software that supports the creation of Sankey diagrams. Some popular choices include:

   • Tableau: Best for interactive charts that can be easily customized and used with BI and analytical tools.
   • Visio: A Microsoft diagramming tool that allows for advanced chart creation with extensive design options.
   • D3.js: A JavaScript library for data visualization, good for custom and more complex chart creation.
   • Sankey Diagram Generator: Simple online tools like Sankey Diagram Maker that offer straightforward data input and output visualization.

3. Data Import: Import your data into the chosen tool. Most tools have import options compatible with CSV or Excel files.

4. Design Your Chart: Map the categories, origins, destinations, and volumes in your data to the chart’s features. Adjust the widths of the links to match the volumes of flow provided in your dataset.

5. Customization: Customize the appearance of your chart, including colors, labels, and link widths, to enhance readability and aesthetic appeal.

6. Review and Iterate: Check the chart for accuracy of the data representation and make any necessary adjustments.

Applications of Sankey Charts

Sankey charts find utility across various fields for their ability to clearly depict flows and distributions:

1. Energy Consumption: Visualize the energy consumed or produced by different units (like power plants, homes, or industries). This helps in understanding how energy is distributed across sectors and identifies areas for improvement in terms of efficiency and sustainability.

2. Financial Flows: In finance, Sankey diagrams can be used to track investments, transactions, and wealth management. They can help investors see patterns in financial flows, identify major contributors to income, and optimize asset allocation.

3. Supply Chain Analysis: To illustrate the flow of goods, materials, or data between different points in a supply chain. This aids in identifying bottlenecks, optimizing logistics, and improving the overall efficiency of the chain.

4. Social Media and Marketing Analysis: Analyze user engagement, interaction patterns, and traffic flow through various channels such as website, apps, social media platforms, and email marketing. This helps businesses refine their digital strategies and improve user experience.

5. Biological Systems: In fields like biology and ecology, Sankey diagrams are used to model energy and nutrient flows in ecosystems, metabolic pathways, and disease transmission routes, which aids in both research and conservation efforts.

By leveraging the visual power of Sankey charts, professionals and analysts can make informed decisions based on the distribution and dynamics of their data, enhancing collaboration, communication, and strategic planning. Whether you’re dealing with complex systems or simply want to gain a clearer look at how inputs are transformed into outputs, Sankey diagrams provide a clear, concise, and compelling way to convey information.

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.