Sankey charts are a type of data visualization that are often used to display complex relationships between two or more data sets. They are different from traditional bar charts and pie charts because they have two main nodes (or starting points) and multiple paths connecting them. This creates a simple yet effective layout that can help users to understand the flow of information or resources between different components.
In this article, we’ll be exploring the power of Sankey charts in data visualization. We’ll start by looking at how sankey charts are created, and then we’ll dive into their applications in different fields of research and data analysis.
Sankey charts can be created through various software tools, such as Tableau, Power BI, and Microsoft Excel. However, creating a proper layout for a sankey chart can be a bit challenging, especially if you’re not experienced with these tools. However, there are a few tutorials and examples online that can guide you through the process.
Once you’ve created your sankey chart, you can use it to explore complex relationships between different data sets. For example, if you’re analyzing the way employees spend their time between different projects, you can follow the paths between the nodes (employees) and see where they all end up going. This can help you to understand the different tasks that are being completed and the dependencies between them.
In addition to analyzing employee workflows, you can also use sankey charts to visualize other types of relationships between data sets, such as energy flow in a power grid or the flow of information in a news organization. By understanding how information is flowing between different components, you can gain valuable insights into the complexities of real-world systems.
One of the most popular applications of sankey charts is in supply chain management. By analyzing the flow of goods from one supplier to another, you can see how the various nodes (such as suppliers, depots, and customers) are interconnected. This can help you to optimize your inventory levels, reduce costs and increase efficiency.
Another field where sankey charts are widely used is in healthcare. In the medical domain, they are often used to study the flow of information among researchers, patients, and medical facilities. This can help to identify areas where resources are being wasted or where there is a need for improved collaboration.
In summary, sankey charts are a powerful tool for exploring the complex relationships between data sets. They can be used across a range of fields, from supply chain management to healthcare, to gain valuable insights into the workings of complex systems. Whether you’re a data analyst, a researcher, or just someone who wants to understand the flow of information, sankey charts offer a unique and useful way to visualize complex data.
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