Flow diagrams and Sankey charts are two of the most commonly used tools in process analysis and project management. They are both extremely effective for visualizing how elements communicate and interact within a system, and they both provide a deep dive into the underlying processes and dependencies that influence the overall workflow.
A flow diagram is a graphical representation of the physical and functional flow of information or data through a system. It consists of a set of interconnected lines and boxes that show the movement of items through the system. Flow diagrams are typically used to show the flow of information in a supply chain, or to track the flow of goods through a manufacturing process. They can also be used to map out the roles and responsibilities of team members, or to visualize the flow of data through a research project.
A Sankey chart, on the other hand, is a type of flow diagram that is specifically designed to show the flow of money or resources through a system. It consists of a network of lines that represent the flow of money or resources, and it includes labels for each line that specify the source, destination, and amount of money or resources that move through them. Sankey charts are commonly used in business analysis and financial management, to track the flow of funds or resources through a variety of systems, from marketing campaigns to employee salaries.
One of the key differences between flow diagrams and Sankey charts is that flow diagrams focus on the physical or functional flow of information or data, while Sankey charts focus on the flow of money or resources. However, there are some similarities between the two. Both types of diagrams can be used to visualize the flow of resources or information through a system, and they can both help to identify the underlying processes and dependencies that influence the overall workflow.
While flow diagrams and Sankey charts are both powerful tools for process analysis and project management, they are also somewhat superficial. To fully understand the underlying processes and dependencies that influence a system, it is important to use a combination of both types of diagrams. Flow diagrams can provide a high-level overview of the system, while Sankey charts can help to identify the more detailed processes and dependencies within the system. This approach allows for a more complete understanding of the system as a whole.
In conclusion, flow diagrams and Sankey charts are valuable tools for visualizing the flow of information or data, as well as the flow of money or resources. While they both have their own strengths and weaknesses, they can be used together to provide a deeper understanding of the underlying processes and dependencies that influence a system. By integrating the use of flow diagrams and Sankey charts into a comprehensive analysis of a system, managers and analysts can better understand the system’s weaknesses, areas for improvement, and potential opportunities for growth.

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