Sankey charts are a powerful visualization tool that allow you to easily identify and optimize processes and workflows. These charts are particularly useful for organizations that are looking to streamline their operations and improve efficiency. In this article, we’ll explore how to create Sankey charts and ways that they can be applied to enhance your organization’s overall efficiency.
What is a Sankey Chart?
A Sankey chart is a type of flowchart that highlights the importance of each process step in a workflow. It is named after its creator, Flippo Sankey, who introduced the chart in the mid-1970s. The chart is used to show the flow of materials, information, or money through a process, and it helps to identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies.
Each Sankey chart consists of two main parts: a “source” area, which represents the starting point of the process, and a “sink” area, which represents the final destination of the process. The arrows connecting these two areas represent the flow of information or materials through the process. By color-coding the arrows and providing a detailed description of each step, Sankey charts provide a clear and concise overview of the entire process.
How to Create a Sankey Chart
Once you have decided that a Sankey chart would be useful for your organization, the first step is to gather the necessary information. This information should include a detailed description of each step of the process, as well as data on the frequency or volume of each step.
Next, create a grid with two main areas: the “source” area and the “sink” area. The source area represents the starting point of the process, while the sink area represents the final destination. Use arrows to connect the source area to each step of the process, and label each step with a descriptive label.
Once all the steps of the process have been added to the chart, use a color code to highlight each step. This will help to differentiate between the different process steps and make it easier to identify the bottlenecks in the process.
Applications of Sankey Charts
Sankey charts can be used in a variety of ways to enhance the efficiency of your organization’s processes. Here are a few examples of how they can be applied:
- Process Optimization: Sankey charts can be used to identify and eliminate bottlenecks in your organization’s processes. By highlighting the steps that are taking the most time, you can identify areas where process improvements can be made.
- Cost Reduction: Sankey charts can also be used to identify areas where costs are creeping up. By highlighting the steps that are the most expensive, you can identify opportunities for cost reduction.
- Resource Allocation: Sankey charts can be used to allocate resources in the most efficient way. By highlighting the steps that are taking up the most resources, you can ensure that resources are allocated where they are most needed.
- Productivity Improvement: Sankey charts can be used to identify areas where productivity is low and to make improvements. By highlighting the steps that are taking the most time, you can identify opportunities for process improvements and increase overall productivity.
In conclusion, Sankey charts are a powerful tool that can be used to streamline processes and Improve overall efficiency. By providing a clear and concise overview of your organization’s processes, Sankey charts can help identify and eliminate bottlenecks, reduce costs, and improve productivity. Additionally, by highlighting the most important steps in the process, Sankey charts can help ensure that resources are allocated in the most efficient way. Whether you are a small business or a large corporation, Sankey charts can be a valuable asset in improving your organization’s overall efficiency.
SankeyMaster
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