Sankey charts are an innovative and effective visualization tool that can help organizations better understand, analyze and communicate complex project and data connections. They provide a clear and intuitive representation of dependencies between various components and can help in identifying key influencers and stakeholders.
In this article, we will explore the various steps involved in creating a Sankey chart and discuss its applications. We will also examine the practical examples of how Sankey charts have been used in various contexts.
Introduction to Sankey Charts:
Sankey charts are a network diagram that uses a central axis or “flow line” representing a single flow of data or resource. This central axis is then divided into multiple “sections” or “ports” representing different aspects or sources of the data flow. The data flow can be represented using a color-coded bar, where the colors indicate the direction of the flow of data, and the bars can be stacked to visualize the different components.
To create a Sankey chart, one must first choose the data that the chart will represent. This can be of any type, whether it is data-driven, sales figures, or even a personal diary. Once the data is chosen, one must decide where the central axis should go, which represents the data stream. The direction of the central axis can be in any direction (left to right, up to down, etc.) depending on the desired direction of data flow.
Next, one must decide on the number of sections that will comprise the chart. The number of sections can increase or decrease depending on the complexity of the data to be represented. In general, the number of sections should be more than or equal to the number of components that will be represented. The sections should be placed on the central axis, with the most important sections at the beginning or end of the chart. The placement of the sections can also have an impact on the flow direction and data flow.
The next step is to determine the data flow for each section. This can be done using different approaches such as a table, a graph, or a flow-chart. The flow direction and the color of the bars can be determined using a combination of color coding, bar height, and other factors.
The flow direction can be the same as the flow direction of the central axis or in different directions based on the complexity of the data. Additionally, the color coding can be color-coded with the flow direction to enhance the visual clarity and also assist in the identification of the flow direction.
Applications of Sankey Charts:
Sankey charts can be used in various fields including Business, Engineering, Healthcare, and more. They are especially useful in industries that deal with complex data structures and require a clear understanding of the data flow. The following are some of the typical uses of Sankey charts:
1. Business: A Sankey chart can be used to visualize the sales data of a company, to identify the key influencers and stakeholders, and to assess the overall performance of the company.
2. Engineering: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of data between different components in a project, to identify bottlenecks and to prioritize initiatives.
3. Health: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the supply chain of medications, medical supplies, and other critical resources in a hospital.
4. Design: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of information between different design and creative processes in a project, to identify design influencers and stakeholders, and to assess the progress of the project.
Conclusion:
Sankey charts are a straightforward and effective tool for visualizing complex data structures and processes. They are simple to create and interpret, and can provide insights into different facets of a project. With its intuitive nature and practical applications in various fields, Sankey charts are an invaluable tool for managers, analysts, and decision-makers alike.

SankeyMaster

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