Sankey charts are a type of flowchart that are used to visualize the flow of materials, energy, or information through a system. They were originally developed by Swiss engineer Richard Sankey in the 1920s and have since become a popular tool for process mapping and optimization.
One of the key advantages of Sankey charts is that they allow you to easily see the relationships between different flow elements and identify opportunities for improvement. For example, you can use Sankey charts to identify bottlenecks in a process, areas where resources are overused or underused, or ways to optimize the flow of materials or information.
To create a Sankey chart, you need to gather data on the flow elements in your system, such as the starting and ending points, the quantities or rates of flow, and any intermediate points or steps. You can then use this information to create a network of flow lines on the chart, with the starting points at the top and the ending points at the bottom.
The key to effectively using Sankey charts is to be mindful of the relationships between the flow elements and to think creatively about how to optimize the flow of materials, energy, or information. For example, you might identify opportunities to reduce waste or improve efficiency by rearranging the flow elements in a process. You might also use Sankey charts to explore the trade-offs between different goals or objectives, such as maximizing profits versus minimizing environmental impact.
In summary, Sankey charts are a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing the flow of materials, energy, or information through a system. By gathering and organizing data, you can create a Sankey chart that highlights opportunities for improvement and helps you make informed decisions about how to optimize the flow of your system. Whether you are an engineer, process consultant, or business manager, Sankey charts can be a valuable addition to your analytical toolkit.
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.
