Streamlining processes and identifying areas for improvement can be challenging, but it’s essential for businesses to operate efficiently and stay competitive. One powerful tool that can help visualize and optimize processes is the Sankey chart. In this article, we’ll explore how Sankey charts are created and the many applications they can be used for.

What is a Sankey chart?

Sankey charts, also known as flowcharts, are a type of diagram used to represent the flow of materials, energy, or information between different nodes or processes. They are named after Rudolph Sankey, an English engineer who patented the technique in 1908.

Sankey charts can be used to represent a wide range of processes, from chemical reactions to supply chain management. They can show the flow of materials or energy between different stages of a process, as well as identify bottlenecks and areas for improvement.

How to create a Sankey chart

Creating a Sankey chart involves several steps:

1. Identify the nodes in the diagram: Nodes in a Sankey chart represent different processes or stages in a process.
2. Determine the direction of the arrows: In a Sankey chart, arrows represent the flow of materials, energy, or information between nodes.
3. Add the labels: Each node in the diagram should be labeled with a descriptive title or process name.
4. Determine the scaling: The size and shape of the nodes can be adjusted to show the relative importance of different processes or stages.
5. Customize the formatting: The chart can be customized with different shapes, colors, and line styles to make it easier to read and understand.

Sankey chart applications

Sankey charts are a versatile tool that can be used in a variety of applications, including:

1. Process improvement: Sankey charts can be used to identify bottlenecks and areas for improvement in a process. By visualizing the flow of materials, energy, or information between different stages, you can identify where there are bottlenecks or unnecessary steps that can be eliminated.
2. Supply chain management: Sankey charts can be used to track the flow of materials or energy through a supply chain. By visualizing the different steps in the chain, you can identify opportunities to improve efficiency and reduce waste.
3. Environmental impact analysis: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of materials or energy through an environmental system, such as a waste management system. By analyzing the flow of materials through the system, you can identify areas where waste can be reduced or recycled.
4. Financial analysis: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of financial information between different accounts or departments. By analyzing the flow of money, you can identify areas where cost-cutting measures can be implemented.

In conclusion, Sankey charts are a powerful tool for visualizing and optimizing processes. By creating a Sankey chart, you can gain a better understanding of how materials, energy, or information flow through a process, identify areas for improvement, and make data-driven decisions to optimize efficiency and reduce waste. Whether you’re improving a business process or managing a supply chain, Sankey charts can help you streamline your operations and stay competitive in an ever-changing world.

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.