Streamlining your process can be a challenge, especially in organizations with complex workflows. Sankey charts are a powerful visualization tool that can help you identify opportunities for improvement and optimize your processes.

In this article, we will delve into the fundamentals of Sankey chart creation, explore the different applications of the chart, and provide tips for using it effectively to streamline your workflow.

What is a Sankey chart?

A Sankey chart is a type of flowchart that uses arrows and nodes to represent the flow of materials, energy, or information. Unlike traditional flowcharts, which are often used to display the flow of goods in a manufacturing or supply chain setting, Sankey charts focus on the flow of materials or energy rather than physical goods.

Sankey charts are useful for visualizing complex workflows and identifying opportunities for improvement. They allow you to see the bottlenecks and inefficiencies in your process, and to identify ways to streamline or optimize them.

How to create a Sankey chart

Creating a Sankey chart is straightforward and can be done using a variety of tools, including Microsoft Excel, Lucidchart, or Gliffy.

To create a Sankey chart in Excel, follow these steps:

1. Open Excel and create a new worksheet.
2. Insert the Sankey chart template by clicking on the Insert tab and selecting Chart.
3. Customize the chart to your liking, including changing the colors and symbols used to represent different items in your workflow.
4. Save the chart as a Sankey chart file.

Using a Sankey chart tool, such as Lucidchart or Gliffy, is also simple and straightforward. Simply open the tool, create a new document, and follow the prompts to create your Sankey chart.

Applications of Sankey charts

There are many applications for Sankey charts in organizations. Here are a few examples:

1. Supply chain management: Sankey charts can be used to visualize and optimize the flow of materials or energy through your supply chain. They can help you identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies in your process and develop strategies to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
2. Process improvement: By visualizing your workflow, Sankey charts can help you identify opportunities for improvement and streamlining. You can use the chart to brainstorm ways to simplify or eliminate unnecessary steps.
3. Project management: Sankey charts can be used in project management to track the flow of work and identify potential bottlenecks. They can help you monitor progress and make adjustments to your plan as needed.
4. Environmental management: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of materials or energy through your organization, and to identify opportunities for reducing waste or improving energy efficiency.

Tips for using Sankey charts effectively

To get the most out of your Sankey chart, it is important to use it effectively. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Customize your chart: Customize your Sankey chart to your needs by changing the colors, labels, and symbols used to represent different items in your workflow. This will make it easier to understand and interpret.
2. Use clear and concise arrows: Use arrows that are clear and easy to understand, and that indicate the direction of the flow. Avoid using arrows that are too complex or that are open at the end.
3. Keep it simple: Keep your Sankey chart simple and easy to understand, and avoid using unnecessary detail. Focus on the main flows and processes in your workflow, and leave out any unnecessary information.
4. Monitor progress: Use your Sankey chart to track progress and identify areas where you can improve. Monitor the chart regularly, and adjust your workflow as needed to keep it running smoothly.

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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.