Sankey charts, a subclass of flow diagrams, have the unique ability to convey incredibly complex system dynamics with remarkable ease and clarity. Often used in situations where volume, energy, or cost flows within processes need to be explored and understood, these diagrams offer a powerful visualization tool for streamlining communication, identifying bottlenecks, and optimizing processes. Let’s dive into how to unleash the full potential of sankey charts for process visualization.
### The Art of Data Flow
Sankey charts are adept at illustrating the flow of quantities through a process. The diagram consists of arrows that begin at a supplier to the left (or top), flow through a series of processes, and converge at a sink or destination to the right (or bottom). The width of the arrows represents the magnitude of the flow, while a flow direction is implied by their path.
### Why Sankey Charts Excel at Visualizing Workflows
**1. Unmatched Data Representation:**
Compared to traditional flowcharts, sankey diagrams offer a more accurate representation of relative data flows. The width of each arrow directly relates to the quantity being moved, making it immediately obvious where energy, material, or money is being allocated relative to the whole.
**2. Identify Process Inefficiencies:**
At a glance, sankey charts quickly highlight inefficiencies by the reduction in arrow width, showcasing where processes might be consuming resources without producing valuable output.
**3. Simplify Complex Systems:**
They offer an elegant solution to encapsulate the complexity of interconnected flows within multiple, often conflicting processes and systems. This allows users to grasp the structure of a system without getting bogged down in the details.
### Implementing Sankey Charts
**1. Gather Your Data:**
First, you’ll need an understanding of the flow and the volume or magnitude associated with each process. This might include energy consumed, resources processed, or costs incurred.
**2. Choose the Right Tool:**
There are several software tools available for creating sankey charts, including specialized software, spreadsheet add-ons, and programming libraries (JavaScript’s D3.js, for example).
**3. Plot Your Sankey Chart:**
Design your chart with arrows whose width corresponds to the process efficiency. Typically, a thin arrow can represent small quantities, wide arrows represent significant volumes, and gaps or narrow sections indicate process inefficiencies or bottlenecks.
**4. Color Coding for Clarity:**
Applying a specific color to each process or type of flow adds a layer of clarity and can be a powerful storytelling tool. This makes it easier for viewers to associate the flow with specific components of the process or type of action.
### Best Practices for Effective Visualization
**1. Simplify Data:**
Too much data can lead to a confusing diagram. Be selective about the data included and only represent data that is truly important to the visualization’s objective.
**2. Label Conspicuously:**
Clearly label suppliers, sinks, and any process steps to aid in understanding the flow. Avoid complex text placements that obscure the visual message of the chart.
**3. Validate the Image:**
Before finalizing your sankey chart, cross-check the design with real-world processes or data to ensure the chart accurately represents the system being visualized.
### Closing Thoughts
Unleashing the power of sankey charts in process visualization can lead to a deeper comprehension of complex systems and make communication of these systems more effective. By carefully plotting your data, choosing the right software, and applying best practices, you can transform your complex processes into a story that’s easily digested and acted upon. Whether in project management, resource allocation, or energy conservation, sankey charts are a valuable tool in the arsenal of any professional looking to optimize their systems. With such a wealth of insight at your fingertips, the investment in creating and studying these diagrams is more than just worthwhile—it’s essential.
