Sankey charts, also known as Sankey diagrams, are a type of data visualization that are based on the principles of flow and connection. By using arrows or lines of various widths to represent the volume of data flowing between different points, sankey charts provide a powerful way to visualize connections and flows in a range of applications. In this article, we’ll explore the creation of sankey charts and their numerous applications.

Understanding Sankey Charts

A sankey chart is a type of flow diagram that uses arrows or bands to portray the distribution of a quantity that flows from one point to another. Each band or arrow has a width that represents the quantity flowing through that channel. Sankey diagrams are particularly useful for situations where the amount and direction of flow is relevant, such as in energy usage, traffic flows, information networks, or financial transactions.

Key Characteristics

• Flow Representation: The lines represent both direction and quantity, making it easy to see where flows are concentrated and dispersed.
• Volume Indication: The width of the lines visually conveys the volume or magnitude of the flow, allowing for quick comparisons.
• Integration of Nodes: Connected nodes represent origins and destinations, showing the flow patterns in relation to these points.
• Clarity and Complexity Handling: Sankey diagrams effectively handle complex datasets with many flows, making the data more digestible and understandable.

Creating Sankey Diagrams

To create a sankey diagram, you’ll typically need data that includes the source, destination, and volume of flow between these points. Here are the basic steps:

1. Data Preparation:

   • Organize your data with columns for source, target, and volume. The source is where the flow originates, the target is where it ends, and the volume represents the quantity of flow.

2. Tool Selection:

   • Choose a tool or software that supports sankey diagrams. Popular tools include matplotlib’s pygal, Tableau, Microsoft Power BI, and D3.js for web-based charts.

3. Input Data:

   • Input your data into the tool. Ensure that data is correctly formatted, with source, target, and volume columns in the correct order or structure depending on the application.

4. Customization:

   • Customize the appearance of your chart, such as color schemes, labels, and line styles, to improve readability and fit your needs.
   • Adjust the thresholds for automatic scaling of line widths, ensuring that the chart remains clear and informative, even with large volumes of data.

5. Review and Adjust:

   • Review the chart for clarity and make adjustments as needed. This could include refining labels, adjusting color contrasts, or rearranging the layout for better flow visualization.

Common Applications

1. Environmental Impact Analysis:

   • Visualize energy usage or waste flows between different production processes or energy sources.

2. Economic Analysis:

   • Show the flow of goods, services, or capital between different sectors in an economy.

3. Transportation Networks:

   • Diagram traffic flows in cities, networks of roads, or public transportation routes.

4. Information Technology:

   • Map data flows in computer networks or data pipelines for data processing.

5. Energy Sector:

   • Chart the distribution of renewable and non-renewable energies, and flows of energy through different systems.

Conclusion

Sankey charts are a powerful tool for visualizing complex flow data, offering clear insights into data movement patterns. By effectively utilizing sankey diagrams, professionals can improve understanding, facilitate comparisons, and communicate intricate data relationships in a visually compelling manner. From environmental studies to financial analysis, these diagrams provide a comprehensive view that simplifies the interpretation of complex datasets. With the correct data preparation and a suitable visualization tool, anyone can leverage the power of sankey charts to unlock new levels of insight in their data analysis.

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.