Sankey charts are a type of flowchart that are specifically designed for visualizing the flow of products, money, or other types of values between different entities or stages in a process. They were originally developed in the 1930s by Frank Sankey, a mathematician and chemical engineer, as a means of analyzing industrial processes and identifying opportunities for improving efficiency and reducing waste.

One of the unique features of Sankey charts is their ability to represent both directionality and material flow. This allows them to capture complex relationships between different entities and the flow of values or information between them. For example, a Sankey chart for a supply chain could show the flow of raw materials from the supplier to the manufacturer, as well as the flow of finished goods from the manufacturer to the retailer.

To create a Sankey chart, you will need to follow a few key steps:

1. Identify the entities and stages in your process. Identify the entities or stages in your process that you want to represent in the chart, and determine the directionality of the flow between them.
2. Organize the data into a spreadsheet. Collect the data that you want to include in the chart, and organize it into a spreadsheet or other table format. Make sure to include the names of the entities or stages, as well as column headers for directionality, value, and any additional attributes.
3. Choose a charting software or tool. There are several software programs available that can help you create Sankey charts, including Microsoft Excel, Lucidchart, and Gliffy. Choose a program that you are comfortable working with, and that has the features and capabilities you need to create your chart.
4. Create the Sankey chart. Once you have set up your charting software and organized your data, you can create the chart itself. Start by adding the first entity or stage to the chart, and then use the software’s tools to connect it to the next entity or stage. Repeat this process for each entity or stage in your process, and be sure to include arrows to indicate the direction of the flow.
5. Customize and refine the chart as needed. Once the chart is created, you may want to customize it further to better fit your needs. For example, you can add labels, formatting, or custom shapes to enhance the chart’s clarity and readability. You can also refine the chart by adjusting the flow arrows, adding or removing entities or stages, or rearranging the chart layout.

Sankey charts are a powerful tool for visualizing complex data relationships, and can be used in a wide range of applications, including supply chain management, financial analysis, and project management. They offer a means of understanding the flow of values or information between different entities or stages in a process, and can help identify opportunities for improving efficiency or reducing waste. With the help of a charting software or tool, you can easily create and customize a Sankey chart to suit your needs and effectively communicate key insights and trends to your stakeholders.

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.