In today’s digital age, data analysis and visualization are becoming increasingly important tools to understand complex information. One such tool that is becoming increasingly popular is the Sankey chart. In this article, we will take a step-by-step guide on how to create and use a Sankey chart to visualize complex data.
What Is a Sankey Chart?
A Sankey chart is a type of network graph that represents relationships between two interconnected entities. It is useful in visualizing the flow of data and information, where each node (point) in the graph corresponds to one of the entities involved, and its weight represents the flow of information between them.
How to Create a Sankey Chart
Step 1: Collect the Data – Before creating a Sankey chart, it is important to have the data that you want to visualize. This can be in the form of a table, spreadsheet or even in a database.
Step 2: Determine the Nodes – The nodes in the Sankey chart are the entities that are being analyzed. These nodes should have a unique identifier, such as a column name, and a weight should be assigned to each entity. This weight can be calculated based on the flow of data or information between the entities.
Step 3: Select the Edges – The edges in the Sankey chart represent the flow of data or information between the nodes. These edges should be defined based on the direction of the flow, and the value can be determined based on the flow of data.
Step 4: Color Coding – Depending on the number of nodes and edges in the chart, it may be necessary to color code the nodes and edges to differentiate between them and make the chart more visually appealing.
Step 5: Customize the Chart – There are many customization options available for Sankey charts, such as adjusting the scale, adding labels, and changing the appearance of the nodes and edges.
Applications of Sankey Charts
Sankey charts have a variety of applications, including:
– Economic and finance sectors – Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of funds from one company to another, or the flow of investments between companies.
– Energy industry – Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of energy resources between different sources and destinations.
– Health and medical industries – Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of information and knowledge between different research institutions and researchers.
Conclusion
Sankey charts are a powerful tool for visualizing complex data. By following the step-by-step guide above, anyone can create a Sankey chart and use it to understand complex relationships between entities. With the right data and customization options, Sankey charts can be used in a variety of industries and fields to gain a deeper understanding of the relationships that exist within them.

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