Introduction
Sankey charts, also known as directed flow charts, are a popular data visualization tool used to display the flow of materials, goods, or information between different entities. They are particularly useful for identifying bottlenecks and opportunities for process improvement. In this article, we will explore the creation of Sankey charts and their applications in various industries.
Creation of Sankey Charts
Sankey charts are created using specialized software, such as Visio or GanttPRO. An important step in creating a Sankey chart is to define the input data source. This may include a spreadsheet or a database table. Next, the chart is built by creating nodes and links between the entities. The chart can be customized to show different types of relationships, such as supplier-customer or production-distribution.
Applications of Sankey Charts
Sankey charts are widely used in manufacturing, logistics, and supply chain management. They are an effective tool for identifying areas of inefficiency or inordinate amounts of materials waste. For example, a Sankey chart could be used to visualize the flow of raw materials from suppliers to manufacturers, and then to end customers. By analyzing this flow, manufacturers can identify opportunities to optimize their processes or reduce waste.
In addition to manufacturing, Sankey charts are also used in finance and accounting to visualize the flow of funds between different accounts or entities. This can help identify potential areas of fraud or misallocation. Sankey charts can also be used in healthcare to visualize the flow of patient care between different departments or healthcare providers. By understanding the flow of patient care, healthcare providers can identify areas for improvement and optimize their processes.
Conclusion
Sankey charts are a powerful data visualization tool that can be used in a wide variety of industries. By visualizing the flow of materials, goods, or information, they can help identify areas for process improvement and optimization. Whether you are a manufacturer, healthcare provider, or finance professional, Sankey charts can help you gain a deeper understanding of your data and improve your processes.
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.
