Sankey charts are a powerful tool for visualizing the flow and transformation of data. They are particularly useful for understanding complex systems and processes, such as supply chains, financial transactions, and information flows. In this article, we will explore the basics of Sankey chart creation, as well as some of the many applications in which they are used.
What are Sankey charts?
Sankey charts are a type of flowchart that use arrows to represent the flow of materials, energy, or information, and the nodes in the chart represent the various steps in the flow. Each node represents a transformation, and the flow can be represented by connecting nodes with arrows. The resulting chart provides a visual representation of the overall flow and the various transformations that occur along the way.
It is worth noting that Sankey charts are not the same as Gantt charts, which are used to represent timelines or project schedules. Gantt charts are typically used for tasks or projects rather than for visualizing the flow of a complex system.
Sankey chart creation
Sankey charts can be created using a variety of software tools, including Microsoft Visio, Lucidchart, and SmartDraw. These tools provide a range of features that make it easy to create and customize Sankey charts. Some of the key features you can use when creating a Sankey chart include:
- Adding nodes and links: You can add nodes to the chart to represent the various steps in the flow, and links between those nodes to represent the flow of materials, energy, or information.
- Customizing node and link styles: You can customize the style of each node and link to make it easier to understand the chart. For example, you can change the color or shape of the links to represent different types of flow.
- Adding transforming elements: You can add transforming elements to the chart such as filters or calculations to represent the various transformations that occur along the flow.
Applications of Sankey charts
Sankey charts have a wide range of applications, including supply chain management, financial analysis, and information management. Some examples of the ways in which Sankey charts are used include:
- Supply chain management: Sankey charts are often used to visualize the flow of materials or goods through a supply chain. This can help companies identify bottlenecks or inefficiencies in the chain, and make improvements to improve efficiency.
- Financial analysis: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of money or other financial assets through a company or organization. This can help analysts understand cash flow, profitability, and other key financial metrics.
- Information management: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of information through an organization or industry. This can help organizations understand the flow of information, identify bottlenecks or inefficiencies, and make improvements to improve the flow of information.
Conclusion
Sankey charts are a powerful tool for visualizing the flow and transformation of data. They are particularly useful for understanding complex systems and processes, such as supply chains, financial transactions, and information flows. With their easy-to-use chart creation tools and a wide range of applications, Sankey charts are a valuable tool for anyone who needs to better understand the flow of data or material.
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.
