Sankey charts are a powerful tool for visualizing data flow and resource allocation. They are particularly useful for showing the direction and magnitude of flow in a system, as well as the resources required for each step of the process. In this article, we will explore the basics of Sankey chart creation and some of the many applications for these versatile visual aids.

The Basics of Sankey Chart Creation

Sankey charts are created using specialized software, such as Sankey Express or Sankey 2000. These programs provide a user-friendly interface for importing data, selecting the appropriate layout and style, and exporting the chart as an image or PDF.

To create a Sankey chart, you will typically need to follow these steps:

1. Import the data: Sankey charts require input data in a specified format, such as a spreadsheet or a CSV file. This data should contain information about the flow of resources or the direction of data movement.
2. Create a layout: The layout of the chart determines the overall appearance of the chart, including the position of various elements and the scale of the data.
3. Add shapes: Shapes are added to the chart to represent the different data flows or process steps. These shapes can be connected by arrows to show the direction of the flow.
4. Customize the chart: The chart can be customized further by adding text, adjusting the appearance of the shapes, and adding filters or interactives.

Applications of Sankey Charts

Sankey charts have a wide range of applications across various industries, including finance, logistics, and healthcare. Some of the common use cases include:

1. Resource Allocation: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of resources within a system, showing where resources are allocated and how they are used. This can help organizations make informed decisions about resource allocation and improve operational efficiency.
2. Data Flow Visualization: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of data within a system, showing how data is transformed and processed as it moves through the system. This can help organizations identify bottlenecks and areas for improvement in their data management processes.
3. Process Analysis: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the process flow of a particular task or activity, showing the inputs, outputs, and resources required for each step. This can help organizations optimize their processes and improve productivity.
4. Supply Chain Management: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of goods or services within a supply chain, showing how resources are allocated and how goods are moved between suppliers and customers. This can help organizations identify areas for improvement in their supply chain management processes.

In conclusion, Sankey charts are a powerful tool for visualizing data flow and resource allocation. They offer a wide range of applications across various industries and can be used to improve operational efficiency, optimize processes, and identify areas for improvement. With the right software, creating a Sankey chart is a straightforward process that can be completed quickly and easily.

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.