Streamlining processes is essential for any organization looking to improve efficiency and reduce waste. One effective tool for visualizing and optimizing processes is the Sankey chart.
What is a Sankey chart?
A Sankey chart, also known as a Sankey diagram or Sankey flowchart, is a type of flowchart that is used to represent the flow of materials or products, as well as the processes involved in those flows. It is named after its creator, W.F. sankey, an engineer and statistician who developed the chart in the late 19th century.
Sankey charts are particularly useful for identifying and addressing bottlenecks in a process, as well as for visualizing the overall flow of materials or products. They can be used to analyze processes in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare.
How to create a Sankey chart
There are several software programs and online tools available for creating Sankey charts. Some popular options include:
- Visio (paid subscription)
- Lucidchart (free to try, with paid plans available)
- SmartDraw (paid subscription)
- Lucidchart offers a variety of templates and pre-built libraries, making it easy to get started with Sankey chart creation. You can also customize the chart to fit your specific needs, such as adding your own data sources or adjusting the layout.
Once your chart is created, you can use it to analyze and optimize your process. Here are some tips for using Sankey charts effectively:
- Identify bottlenecks: A Sankey chart can help you identify areas where the flow of materials or products is slowed down or where there are unnecessary steps in the process. By focusing on these bottlenecks, you can streamline your process and improve efficiency.
- Prioritize improvements: Once you have identified areas for improvement, determine which changes would have the biggest impact on the overall flow of your process. This will help you prioritize your efforts and ensure that you are making the most impactful changes.
- Communicate changes: Once you have implemented changes to your process, use your Sankey chart to communicate those changes to team members and stakeholders. This will help ensure that everyone is on the same page and working towards the same goals.
Overall, Sankey charts are a useful visual tool for streamlining processes and identifying areas for improvement. By using them effectively, you can improve efficiency, reduce waste, and ultimately drive success for your organization.
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.
