In today’s world of data analysis, using visualization tools to enhance understanding and insights is a must. Sankey charts are an effective tool for navigating trends and flow in data analysis. In this article, we will explore the creation and applications of Sankey charts, which are similar to Gantt charts but designed for better visualization of processes and flow.
What is a Sankey Chart?
A Sankey chart is a type of diagram that shows the flow and interaction of resources between different systems and elements. The chart consists of two sets of interconnected bars: the bottom bar represents the source, or input, whereas the upper bar represents the destination, or output. The two sets can be nested within each other and also show the flow direction.
When creating a Sankey chart, the user should decide on the number of nodes and edges that will be included in the chart, define the origin and destination of the resources, and choose the type of flow (as it is divided into different levels such as continuous, discrete, or binary flow).
Applications of Sankey Charts
Sankey charts are used in a variety of fields to explore and analyze data that shows flow and interaction patterns. Here are some examples:
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Supply Chain: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of goods and materials across different levels of the chain. This helps identify bottlenecks and areas where improvements are needed.
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Healthcare: With the increasing complexity of healthcare systems, sankey charts can help track the flow of patients and medical supplies. This visualization can help identify areas where efficiency can be improved.
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Agricultural Production: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of inputs and outputs in the agricultural sector, identifying inefficiencies and areas where improvements can be made.
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Environmental Change: with changes in global climate and resource scarcity, sankey charts can be used to track the flow of resources across different regions. This helps identify areas where conservation efforts need to be focused.
Creating a Sankey Chart
Sankey charts can be created using a variety of software tools. The most common method involves constructing the nodes and edges on a single page and then adding a flow diagram below. However, some software tools, like Tableau, offer automated Sankey chart creation that can be faster and more intuitive.
Overall, Sankey charts are a powerful tool that can be used to visualize complex processes and flow. Whether in supply chain, healthcare, agriculture, or environmental change, the ability to visualize and track flow and interaction helps to understand patterns and improve operations.
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