Sankey charts are a powerful visualization tool for understanding the flow of goods, services, or information between different entities. They are especially useful for identifying bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and areas for optimization in complex systems.

In this article, we will explore the basics of Sankey chart creation, as well as some real-world applications for this powerful visualization technique.

What is a Sankey Chart?

A Sankey chart is a flow diagram that uses directional arrows to represent the flow of materials, information, or other entities between different nodes or entities. Each node represents a source or sink of the entity being illustrated, and the arrows indicate the direction of the flow.

Sankey charts are named after Scottish physicist and mathematician William Edmond Logan Sankey, who developed the chart in the late 19th century.

How to Create a Sankey Chart

There are several software programs available for creating Sankey charts, including:

1. Microsoft Visio
2. Lucidchart
3. SmartDraw
4. Draw.io
5. Google Draw
6. Creately

Once you have chosen a program, you can begin by creating the nodes for each source and sink of the entity you want to visualize. Arrows are then added to indicate the direction of the flow.

To optimize the flow, it is important to ensure that the arrows are directed away from the nodes that are at capacity and towards those that are underutilized.

Applications of Sankey Charts

Sankey charts are especially useful in identifying areas for improvement in complex systems. Here are some real-world applications of Sankey charts:

1. Supply Chain Management: Sankey charts can help identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies in supply chain management, allowing companies to optimize their operations and reduce costs.
2. Water Resource Management: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of water between different entities, helping to identify areas where water conservation efforts could be stepped up.
3. Healthcare: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of patients and information between different healthcare providers, identifying bottlenecks and areas for improvement in patient care.
4. Environmental Management: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of pollutants and waste products between different sources, helping to identify areas where conservation efforts could be stepped up.

In summary, Sankey charts are a powerful visualization tool for understanding the flow of goods, services, or information between different entities. They are especially useful for identifying bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and areas for optimization in complex systems, making them a valuable tool for optimizing processes and improving efficiency.

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.