In this article, we will discuss how to create Sankey charts and their applications in streamlining processes.
What are Sankey charts?
Sankey charts are a type of flowchart that is used to visualize the flow and transformation of materials, inputs, outputs, or information in a given system. These charts were originally developed by Dr. Charles Sankey in the early 20th century as part of his work on process flow analysis.
Sankey charts are particularly useful for identifying and optimizing processes, as they allow us to easily see the flow of materials, inputs, and outputs through a particular system. This makes it easier to identify areas where processes can be improved or streamlined.
How to create Sankey charts?
Creating Sankey charts is relatively simple, and there are several software programs available that can help you create them. Some popular programs include:
- Microsoft Visio: Visio is a powerful diagramming tool that allows you to create a wide range of charts, including Sankey charts. To create a Sankey chart in Visio, simply open the chart template and add the necessary input, output, and transformation symbols.
- Lucidchart: Lucidchart is a web-based diagramming tool that offers a wide range of templates, including Sankey charts. To create a Sankey chart in Lucidchart, simply drag and drop the necessary input and output boxes, and add the transformation lines.
- SmartDraw: SmartDraw is a desktop diagramming tool that offers a wide range of templates, including Sankey charts. To create a Sankey chart in SmartDraw, simply drag and drop the necessary input and output boxes, and add the transformation lines.
Applications of Sankey charts in process flow optimization
Sankey charts can be used to visualize and optimize a wide range of processes, including manufacturing, supply chain management, information processing, and financial management. Some common applications of Sankey charts include:
- Identifying bottlenecks: Sankey charts allow you to easily identify areas where materials, inputs, or outputs are bottlenecked, which can help you optimize your processes.
- Improving efficiency: By identifying and optimizing processes, Sankey charts can help you improve the overall efficiency of your system.
- Reducing waste: Sankey charts can be used to identify and eliminate unnecessary steps in a process or system, which can help reduce waste and improve efficiency.
- Identifying opportunities for improvement: By using Sankey charts to visualize the flow and transformation of materials, inputs, and outputs, you can identify opportunities for improvement in any given process.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Sankey charts are a powerful tool for visualizing and optimizing processes. By creating and analyzing Sankey charts, you can easily identify bottlenecks, improve efficiency, reduce waste, and identify opportunities for improvement. With the help of software programs such as Visio, Lucidchart, and SmartDraw, it is easy to create and use Sankey charts to streamline your processes.
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