Sankey charts, often referred to as flow diagrams, are a type of data visualization that can help us understand the connections and flows between different elements. They are particularly useful in visual storytelling, as they can help us communicate complex relationships and flows in a visually intuitive and engaging way. In this article, we will explore the creation and applications of Sankey charts, and how they can help us unleash the power of flow in our data visualization and storytelling.
What is a Sankey Chart?
A Sankey chart is a flow diagram that is used to visualize the flow of material, energy, or other quantities between different nodes in a system. The chart is named after British statistician and engineer, John Snow, who used it to map the spread of cholera in London in the 1850s. The chart consists of a series of rectangular bars representing different nodes, and arrows connecting the nodes to show the flow between them. The width of the arrows is proportional to the volume of the flow, while the colors of the bars and arrows can be used to represent different categories or variables.
Creation of Sankey Charts
Creating a Sankey chart can be a complex process, as it involves several steps to ensure that the chart is both accurate and visually appealing. Here are the key steps involved in creating a Sankey chart:

1. Define the nodes: The first step in creating a Sankey chart is to define the nodes, which represent the different elements or categories in your system. The nodes can be named and placed in a logical order, and any relevant data can be collected for each node.
2. Determine the flows: Once you have defined the nodes, the next step is to determine the flows between them. This can involve collecting data on the volume or direction of the flow, as well as any relevant variables that can be represented by the colors, sizes, or shapes of the arrows or bars.
3. Choose a chart tool: There are many chart tools available that can help you create Sankey charts, including Excel, Tableau, and Google Charts. Each tool has its own strengths and limitations, so it’s important to choose the one that best fits your needs and skills.
4. Design the chart: Once you have your data and chart tool, the next step is to design the chart. This involves choosing the colors, fonts, sizes, and other visual elements that will make the chart clear, appealing, and informative. It’s important to keep the legend and key simple and easy to understand, as well as to ensure that the chart is not overcrowded or difficult to read.
5. Review and refine: After creating the chart, it’s important to review it and refine it as needed. This may involve adjusting the data, improving the design, or adding additional elements that can help clarify the story.

Applications of Sankey Charts
Sankey charts are widely used in a variety of fields, including economics, engineering, ecology, and social sciences, to name a few. Here are a few examples of the ways in which Sankey charts can be used in various applications:

1. Energy systems: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of energy in different systems, such as renewable energy systems, industrial processes, or energy use in buildings. They can help us understand where the energy is being sourced from, where it is being used, and how it is being transformed or lost.
2. Material flow analysis: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of materials in different systems or processes, such as manufacturing, recycling, or supply chains. They can help us understand the sources and sinks of materials, the distribution of materials, and the potential for reducing waste or improving efficiency.
3. Social network analysis: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of relationships or interactions between different individuals or organizations in a social network. They can help us understand the patterns of communication, collaboration, or influence, and how they are changing over time.
4. Data flow analysis: Sankey charts can

In conclusion, Sankey charts are an essential tool in the data visualization and storytelling toolkit. They help us understand the complex relationships and flows between different elements in our data, and can be used in a variety of applications to explain and analyze a wide range of phenomena. By taking the time to create and refine a Sankey chart, we can unleash the full power of flow in our data visualization and storytelling, and communicate our insights and findings in a visually intuitive and engaging way.

SankeyMaster

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