Sankey charts are a powerful data visualization tool that can help you transform complex data into easy-to-understand insights and actionable information. With this tutorial, you’ll learn what Sankey charts are, how to create them, and some of their most effective applications.
What are Sankey charts?
Sankey charts are a type of flow diagram used to visualize the flow of data across different stages or activities. They can be used to represent any type of data, such as time series, price movements, population data, financial data, etc.
Sankey charts are often used in social sciences, economics, and public policy to present complex data in an easy-to-understand and meaningful way. They can be used to represent a variety of data types, such as transportation networks, supply chains, disease spread, and more.
How to create a Sankey chart
Creating a Sankey chart is a straightforward process but requires a basic understanding of data visualization and how to represent data flow. Here’s how to create a simple Sankey chart:
Step 1: Begin by deciding on the data that you want to represent. Make sure to choose a format that makes sense for your data, such as a timeline, a network of activities, or a matrix of numbers.
Step 2: Start by drawing the starting node. This is the source or origin of the flow of the data.
Step 3: For each node, label each part of the network with the corresponding value or label.
Step 4: Connect the starting node to the other nodes with arrows indicating the direction of the flow of data. The arrows should use the same color and direction to make them easier to read and understand.
Step 5: Use a legend to identify the values or labels at the nodes and arrows.
Some best ways to apply Sankey charts in practice
Sankey charts can be used for a variety of applications, such as:

1. Understanding the flow of supply and demand, and how it affects the economic system.
2. Mapping the path of traffic flow, such as traffic in the US or city of New York.
3. Exploring the flow of knowledge or information across different stakeholders in an organization or community.

4. Identifying the key activities and players in an industry, such as supply chain or financial sector.
   Sankey charts have a wide range of applications and benefits, such as:

5. Improved decision making: By providing visual insights into the flow of data, Sankey charts can help organizations make more informed decisions and predictions.

6. Reduced complexity: Sankey charts simplify the flow of data by breaking it down into manageable stages, making it easier for people to understand complex information.
7. Improved understanding of data: By presenting data in a visual and interactive format, Sankey charts can help people understand the connections and interdependencies between different data sources.

In conclusion, Sankey charts are an effective data visualization tool that can help you transform complex data into easy-to-understand insights and actionable information. From social sciences and economics to business, public policy, and other fields, Sankey charts have a wide range of applications and benefits. Whether you’re simply looking to represent data flow or exploring the structure of an economic system,Sankey charts are an excellent choice.

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.