Sankey charts are a type of flow diagram that is commonly used to visualize the flow of data between different entities. They are particularly useful when you want to visualize the relationships between different elements of a flow, such as different entities, processes, or steps in a process.
In this article, we will explore the power of Sankey charts and how they can be used to unlock insights about the flows and dynamics in systems. We will also examine the different ways in which Sankey charts can be created and applied in various scenarios.
Introduction to Sankey Charts
Sankey charts are also sometimes known as flow diagrams, network graphs, or as a series of interconnected arrows pointing in different directions. They are primarily used to visualize the flow of data, information, energy, materials, or other resources between different entities or processes.
In a Sankey chart, a series of arrows connect each element to other elements in the flow. The direction of the arrows represents the direction of the flow. The relative position and length of the arrows indicate the flow rate or volume of the flow, and the color of the arrows can help differentiate between different types of flows, such as energy flows between two different sources or targets.
Application of Sankey Charts
Sankey charts have a wide range of applications in various fields, such as engineering, project management, operations management, economics, and social sciences. Here are some application scenarios in which you might use Sankey charts:
1. Engineering Systems: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of materials, energy, and information between different components of an engineering system.
2. Business Projects: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of resources, such as labor, materials, equipment, inventory, and finance, between different stages in a business project.
3. Supply Chain Management: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of goods and services between different points in a supply chain.
4. Operations Management: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of resources, such as energy and information, between different departments or processes in an organization.
5. Social Sciences: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of resources, such as money, time, and human interaction, between different social networks or communities.
Creating Sankey Charts
Sankey charts are relatively easy to create, and there are many free online tools and software that can help you create them. The process typically involves:
1. Gathering data: Collect the relevant data or information that you want to visualize in your Sankey chart.
2. Plotting the data: Use your chosen software or tool to plot the data in the Sankey chart.
3. Setting the scale: Typically, the direction and length of the arrows in the Sankey chart represent the flow rate or volume of the flow. You can adjust the scale of the arrows to visualize the data flow.
4. Adjusting the color scheme: Use different color schemes to differentiate between different types of flows in the Sankey chart.
5. Labeling the arrows: Add labels to the arrows to help you visualize the direction of the flow and how much of a flow is moving in a given direction.
Benefits of Sankey Charts
Sankey charts are a useful tool for unlocking insights about the flows and dynamics of systems. Here are some of the key benefits of using Sankey charts:
1. Visualization: Sankey charts allow you to visualize the flow of data and information in your systems in a more intuitive and easy-to-understand way.
2. Analysis: Sankey charts can be used for analysis and forecasting of system behavior, and can help you identify potential bottlenecks in the flow of information and flow of resources in your systems.
3. Decision Making: Sankey charts can help you make informed decisions about the flow of resources and information in your systems, by highlighting the areas of potential improvement or bottlenecks.
Conclusion
Sankey charts are a powerful tool for unlocking insights and analysis about the flows and dynamics in your systems. They can be used to visualize the flow of data, information, energy, materials, or other resources between different entities, and can help you make informed decisions about how to improve the system.
Incorporate Sankey charts into your systems to unlock insights and unlock the power of flow diagrams.
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.
