In this visual guide, we’ll walk you through the process of creating Sankey charts, a powerful tool for understanding and optimizing flow in your organization. From start to finish, we’ll show you how to streamline your processes, improve efficiency, and drive better decision-making.

What are Sankey charts?

Sankey charts, also known as flowcharts, are a type of diagram used to visualize the flow of materials or information through a process. They are called Sankey charts after the British engineer Charles Sankey, who invented them in the early 20th century.

Sankey charts are useful for identifying bottlenecks, optimize the flow of resources, and identifying areas for improvement in both manufacturing and service processes. They are particularly useful in identifying the cause and effect relationships that are taking place within a system.

Sankey charts are also useful in identifying areas where waste is being produced, such as inefficiencies in a manufacturing process, or unnecessary steps in a service process. This information can be used to streamline processes and improve efficiency.

How to create a Sankey chart

Creating a Sankey chart is relatively simple and doesn’t require any specialized knowledge. Here are the general steps you can follow:

1. Determine the purpose of the Sankey chart: Before you start creating your chart, it’s important to determine the purpose of your chart. What information do you want to convey? Who will be viewing the chart? This will help you to determine the scale and content of your chart.
2. Gather data: Once you have determined the purpose of your chart, gather the data you need to create it. This may include data on inputs, outputs, and flow rates.
3. Decide on the type of Sankey chart: Sankey charts can be created in a variety of ways. You can create a diagram showing the flow of materials or information through a process, or you can create a flowchart that shows how different elements are interacting with each other.
4. Choose a software or tool: There are many software options available for creating Sankey charts, such as Microsoft Visio, Lucidchart, and SmartDraw. Choose the one that best suits your needs, and that you are most comfortable working with.
5. Create the chart: Once you have gathered your data, decided on the type of chart you want to create, and chosen a software tool, you can begin to create your Sankey chart. Follow the step-by-step instructions in your software to create your chart, making sure to include all necessary data and labels.
6. Review and refine: Once your chart is complete, review it for accuracy and completeness. Make any necessary adjustments and refine the chart as needed.

Applications of Sankey charts

Sankey charts are a useful tool for a variety of applications, including:

1. Manufacturing and production: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of materials or information through a manufacturing process, identifying bottlenecks and areas for improvement.
2. Service processes: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of information through a service process, identifying areas for improvement and reducing waste.
3. Supply chain management: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of materials or information through a supply chain, identifying areas for improvement and reducing waste.
4. Project management: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of resources through a project, identifying bottlenecks and areas for improvement.
5. Organizational management: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of information and resources throughout an organization, identifying areas for improvement and reducing waste.

In conclusion, Sankey charts are a powerful tool for understanding and optimizing flow in your organization. By visualizing the flow of materials or information through a process, you can identify bottlenecks, optimize the flow of resources, and drive better decision-making. With the

SankeyMaster

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