Sankey charts, also known as flowcharts, are a type of visual representation of the flow of materials or information between different nodes. They are often used to analyze and improve processes, by identifying bottlenecks and areas where waste or inefficiency occurs. In this article, we will walk through the basics of creating and understanding Sankey charts, along with some real-world examples of their use.

Sankey chart creation

Sankey charts can be created using a variety of tools, including Microsoft Excel, Lucidchart, and Gliffy. Here is an example of how to create a Sankey chart in Microsoft Excel:

1. Enter your data into a table in Excel.
2. Insert a Sankey chart template into the worksheet.
3. Customize the chart settings to suit your needs, such as the colors, labels, and arrows.
4. Add nodes and links between the nodes to represent the flow of materials or information.

When creating a Sankey chart, it is important to choose the right type of chart for your data. Different types of Sankey charts, such as flowcharts and networkcharts, are better suited for different types of data. Some charts may also have specific features or functionalities, such as the ability to compare multiple data sets or show the flow of materials over time.

Understanding Sankey charts

Sankey charts are a powerful tool for visualizing data flow, and can be used to identify and address bottlenecks and inefficiencies in processes. Here are some tips for understanding Sankey charts:

1. Identify the nodes in your chart. Nodes represent the different steps or processes in your workflow. Each node will have a label and a value, which represent the amount of flow or the output of the process.
2. Follow the flow of materials or information. The links between nodes represent the flow of materials or information between different processes. By following these links, you can see where there are bottlenecks or areas of inefficiency.
3. Look for trends or patterns. Sankey charts can be used to show the flow of materials or information over time, or to compare different data sets. By looking for trends or patterns in your chart, you can identify changes or opportunities for improvement.

Examples of Sankey chart applications

Sankey charts can be used in a variety of industries and applications, including manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics. Here are a few examples of how Sankey charts are used in different contexts:

1. Manufacturing: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of materials through a manufacturing process, and identify areas where bottlenecks or inefficiencies occur. This can help manufacturers optimize their processes and reduce waste.
2. Healthcare: Sankey charts can be used to track the flow of patients through a healthcare system, and identify areas where patients may encounter delays or obstacles. This can help healthcare providers improve the overall efficiency and quality of care.
3. Logistics: Sankey charts can be used to track the flow of goods through a logistics process, and identify areas where delays or inefficiencies occur. This can help logistics providers improve the efficiency and accuracy of their operations.

Conclusion

Sankey charts are a powerful tool for visualizing data flow and identifying bottlenecks and inefficiencies in processes. By understanding how to create and interpret Sankey charts, you can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of your processes. Whether you are in manufacturing, healthcare, or logistics, Sankey charts can be a valuable tool for optimizing your workflow and achieving better outcomes.

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.