Streamlining processes can be a challenge, but it’s essential for improving efficiency and maximizing productivity. One visualization tool that can help you understand and optimizeyour processes is the Sankey chart. In this article, we’ll go over the basics of Sankey chart creation and provide some examples of how businesses have used them to improve their operations.

What are Sankey charts?

Sankey charts are a type of flowchart that can be used to represent the flow of materials, energy, or information between individuals, systems, or organizations. They are named after the Dutch engineer Leo Sankey, who developed the technique in the 1930s. Sankey charts are particularly useful for identifying bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and opportunities for improvement in complex systems.

How to create a Sankey chart

To create a Sankey chart, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Identify the objects: Start by identifying the different objects or processes that are involved in the flow you want to visualize. This might include suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, customers, or any other relevant parties.
2. Determine the direction of the flow: Decide which direction the flow is moving in, either from the source to the sink or from the sink to the source.
3. Draw the flowchart: Use arrows to represent the flow of materials, energy, or information between the objects. The flowchart should show the start and end points of the flow, as well as any intermediate steps or processes.
4. Label the chart: Clearly label each object on the chart, including its name, location, and role in the flow.
5. Use icons to represent the flow: Use icons to represent the different types of flow, such as material flow, energy flow, or information flow.
6. Customize the chart: You can customize the chart by adding detailed information such as costs, quantities, or timelines to better understand the flow and identify areas for improvement.

Applications of Sankey charts

Here are some examples of how businesses have used Sankey charts to streamline processes and improve efficiency:

1. Manufacturing: A company that produces several products might use a Sankey chart to visualize the flow of materials between different departments, such as design, production, and packaging. By identifying bottlenecks and inefficiencies, the company can make changes to improve productivity and reduce waste.
2. Supply chain: A company that operates a global supply chain might use a Sankey chart to visualize the flow of materials between suppliers, manufacturers, and distributors. By analyzing the flow of goods, the company can identify opportunities to improve delivery times or reduce costs.
3. Data analytics: A data analytics firm might use a Sankey chart to visualize the flow of information between different data sources or systems. By identifying common patterns or trends, the firm can gain insights into user behavior and improve its data visualization tools.

Conclusion

Sankey charts are a powerful visualization tool that can help you understand and optimize complex processes. By identifying bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and opportunities for improvement, you can make changes that improve productivity and reduce waste. Whether you’re in manufacturing, supply chain, or data analytics, a Sankey chart can be a valuable asset in streamlining your operations and maximizing your efficiency.

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