Unleashing the Power of Flow: Mastering Sankey Chart Visualization for Process Improvement

Have you ever wondered how to visualize the flow of a process and identify bottlenecks or areas for improvement? A Sankey chart is a powerful tool that can help you answer these questions and improve your processes.

In this article, we’ll explore the basics of Sankey chart creation, as well as some practical applications for process improvement. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of how Sankey charts can revolutionize the way you approach process optimization.

What is a Sankey Chart?

A Sankey chart is a type of flowchart that uses arrows to represent the flow of materials, information, or ideas between different nodes (also known as “processes” or “departments”). Unlike traditional flowcharts, which often include multiple types of nodes, Sankey charts are specifically designed to visualize the movement of a single type of item (such as materials, products, or information).

Each node in a Sankey chart represents a specific process, and the arrows between them represent the flow of materials (or other items) through that process. The chart can be used to identify bottlenecks, areas of inefficiency, or opportunities for improvement in a given process.

How to Create a Sankey Chart

Creating a Sankey chart is relatively straightforward, and there are many tools available that make it easy to get started. Some popular options include:

1. Microsoft Visio: Visio is a popular diagramming tool that includes a wide range of shapes and templates, including several for creating Sankey charts. It’s easy to use, even for those without prior experience with diagramming software.
2. Google Drawings: Drawings is a free, web-based diagramming tool that includes a variety of templates for creating Sankey charts. It’s simple to use and integrates well with other Google tools and services.
3. SmartDraw: SmartDraw is a paid diagramming software that includes a wide range of templates, including several for Sankey chart creation. It’s easy to use and can customize to meet your specific needs.

To create a Sankey chart, begin by selecting the “Sankey chart” template from the tool’s library. Then, add the nodes and arrows to represent the flow of materials or information through your process. You can customize the chart by changing the colors, fonts, and other visual elements to suit your needs.

Applications of Sankey Chart Visualization

Once you’ve created a Sankey chart, the next step is to use it to analyze and improve your process. Here are some practical applications of Sankey chart visualization for process improvement:

1. Identifying bottlenecks: A Sankey chart can help you identify areas where materials or information are being held up or where there are delays in the process. By analyzing the arrows between nodes, you can see where the flow is most congested and where improvements can be made to increase efficiency.
2. Streamlining processes: Sankey charts can also be used to identify opportunities for streamlining processes and reducing waste. For example, you might identify that materials are being unnecessarily reworked or that information is being duplicated, and make changes to eliminate these inefficiencies.
3. Reducing lead times: By visualizing the flow of materials through your process, a Sankey chart can help you identify opportunities to reduce lead times. For example, you might identify that materials are taking too long to be delivered, and work to expedite the process.
4. Enhancing communication: Sankey charts can be used to enhance communication with stakeholders, such as suppliers, customers, or team members. By sharing the chart with them, you can ensure that everyone is on the same page and working towards the same goals.

Conclusion

Visualizing the flow of a process

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.