Sankey charts, also known as flowcharts, are a type of diagram used to visualize the flow of materials, information, or resources in a process or system. They are particularly useful for businesses looking to optimize their workflow and improve overall efficiency. In this article, we will explore the basics of Sankey chart creation and the various ways in which they can be applied to enhance business processes.
What are Sankey Charts?
Sankey charts are essentially flowcharts that use arrows to represent the flow of materials, information, or resources through a process. They are named after their creator, Charles Sankey, who developed the chart in the late 19th century. Sankey charts are particularly useful for visualizing complex processes and identifying areas where improvements can be made.
One of the most notable features of Sankey charts is their ability to display the flow of materials or resources in a highly detailed and accurate manner. By using arrows to represent the flow, Sankey charts allow you to easily identify bottlenecks, duplication of effort, and other areas where improvements can be made.
Sankey Chart Creation
Sankey charts can be created using a variety of tools, including Microsoft Excel, Lucidchart, and SmartDraw. To create a Sankey chart, simply follow these steps:
- Determine the elements you want to include in your chart. This may include inputs, outputs, processing steps, and any other relevant information.
- Arrange these elements on the chart in the desired order.
- Use arrows to represent the flow of materials or resources through the chart.
- Customize the chart with additional features, such as data fields, conditional formatting, and more.
Applications of Sankey Charts
Sankey charts have a wide range of applications in business processes, including:
- Process optimization: Sankey charts can be used to identify areas where business processes can be streamlined, resulting in increased efficiency and productivity.
- Resource allocation: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of resources, allowing you to identify areas where resources may be over or underused.
- Inventory management: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of goods through a supply chain, allowing you to identify areas where inventory levels may be optimized.
In summary, Sankey charts are a powerful tool for visualizing the flow and efficiency of business processes. By using arrows to represent the flow of materials or resources, they allow you to easily identify bottlenecks, duplication of effort, and other areas where improvements can be made. Whether you are looking to optimize your workflow or improve overall efficiency, Sankey charts are an essential tool for any business looking to succeed in today’s fast-paced world.
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.
