Sankey charts are a type of flow diagram that is used to visualize the direction and magnitude of a process. They are especially useful for streamlining processes and identifying areas for improvement. In this article, we will provide a visual guide on how to create and apply Sankey charts.

What is a Sankey Chart?

A Sankey chart is a flow diagram that is used to visualize the direction and magnitude of a process. It is named after its creator, Gunther SANKE, who developed the first Sankey chart in the 1920s. Sankey charts are useful for identifying bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and opportunities for improvement in a process. They are commonly used in industries such as healthcare, finance, and manufacturing.

Creating a Sankey Chart

To create a Sankey chart, you will need to gather data on the inputs and outputs of your process, as well as the flow of materials or information through the process. You will also need to specify the unit of time for each data point. Once you have this information, you can use a Sankey chart software, such as Visually, to create your chart.

Applications of Sankey Charts

Sankey charts are widely used in various industries and sectors to identify areas for improvement and optimize processes. Some common applications of Sankey charts include:

1. Quality Improvement: Sankey charts can help identify areas of a process that may be causing defects or problems. By visualizing the flow of materials or information through the process, you can quickly identify where improvements may be necessary.
2. Cost Reduction: Sankey charts can be used to identify areas of a process that may be wasting resources or increasing costs. By visualizing the flow of materials or information through the process, you can quickly identify where cost-saving measures may be necessary.
3. Process Optimization: Sankey charts can be used to identify areas of a process that may be inefficient or unnecessary. By visualizing the flow of materials or information through the process, you can quickly identify where improvements may be necessary.
4. Innovation and Product Development: Sankey charts can be used to identify areas of a process that may be bottlenecks or obstacles to innovation and product development. By visualizing the flow of materials or information through the process, you can quickly identify where improvements may be necessary.

How to Use Sankey Charts

Once you have created a Sankey chart, you can use it to analyze your process and identify areas for improvement. Some tips for using Sankey charts include:

1. Start by identifying the inputs and outputs of your process.
2. Locate all the steps in the process and make a flow map of the inputs and outputs.
3. Use arrows to show the direction of the flow, and use labels to identify the units of time for each data point.
4. Use colors to highlight areas of the process that may be causing defects or problems, or that may be wasting resources or increasing costs.
5. Use labels and annotations to provide additional information and context.
6. Regularly review and update your Sankey chart as needed to ensure that it accurately reflects your process.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Sankey charts are a useful tool for visualizing and improving processes. By gathering data on inputs and outputs, flow of materials or information, and unit of time, you can create a Sankey chart that accurately reflects your process. With the help of a Sankey chart, you can identify areas for improvement, optimize processes, and reduce waste and costs. Regularly reviewing and updating your Sankey chart can help ensure that it accurately reflects your process and provides valuable insights into how to make improvements.

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.