Sankey charts are a type of data visualization that have gained popularity in recent years for their ability to effectively represent complex flows and connections. These charts are visually stunning and can help to communicate data in ways that are clear, intuitive, and memorable. In this article, we will explore the power of Sankey charts, how to create them, and some of the most common applications for this type of data visualization.
What are Sankey Charts?

The name “Sankey chart” comes from the Scottish civil engineer and physicist Matthew Henry Phineas Riall Sankey. Sankey charts are named in his honour, as he was the first to use this type of chart to represent flows of energy in various industrial processes. A Sankey diagram uses arrows to represent the flow of data, with the width of each arrow indicating the volume or magnitude of the flow. These diagrams are often used to represent energy consumption, material flow, transportation networks, and other types of complex systems. The data in a Sankey diagram is typically organized in a hierarchical manner, with the top of the chart representing the starting point for the flow, followed by intermediate stages, and then the final destination(s). This hierarchical structure helps to create a clear and logical flow of information.
How to Create a Sankey Diagram

Creating a Sankey diagram can be done using various tools, including data visualization software such as Tableau, R, or Python libraries such as PySankey or SankeyPlot. Here are the basic steps for creating a Sankey diagram:

1. Collect the data: The first step is to gather the necessary data. You will need to know the starting point for the flow, the intermediate stages, and the final destination(s). This data can be in a variety of formats, such as CSV, Excel, or database tables.
2. Create the data set: Once you have collected the data, you will need to create a data set that can be used to generate the Sankey diagram. This involves creating a data table with three columns: source, target, and value. The source and target columns represent the starting and ending points for each flow, while the value column represents the volume or magnitude of the flow.
3. Choose a visualization tool: Next, you will need to choose a data visualization tool that can generate Sankey diagrams. As mentioned earlier, there are various tools available, such as Tableau, R, or Python libraries. Each tool has its own strengths and weaknesses, so you will need to choose the one that best fits your needs.
4. Create the chart: Once you have chosen your visualization tool and created your data set, you can create the Sankey diagram using the tool’s built-in features. You will need to define the dimensions and parameters for the chart, such as the orientation, size, and color scheme. The visualization tool will then generate the chart based on the data set and parameters you have defined.

5. Customize the chart: Finally, you can customize the chart to enhance its visual appeal and make it more effective in communicating the data. This can include adding labels, changing colors, or adjusting the size and orientation of the chart.

   Applications of Sankey Diagrams

Sankey diagrams are used in various fields to help people understand complex flows and connections. Here are some of the most common applications of this type of data visualization:

1. Energy consumption: As mentioned earlier, Sankey diagrams were originally created to represent energy consumption in a range of industrial processes. This type of chart can help people understand how energy is being used within a system, where energy is being generated, and where energy is being consumed.
2. Material flow: Material flow diagrams can represent the movement of materials within a manufacturing process, a supply chain, or a recycling system. These diagrams can help people understand the flow of materials and identify areas where waste or inefficiency exists.
3. Transportation networks: Sankey diagrams can also be used to represent transportation networks, such as road networks, airlines, or shipping routes. These diagrams can help people understand the flow of goods or passengers within a network, as well as identify bottlenecks or areas for improvement.

In conclusion, Sankey diagrams are a powerful data visualization tool that can help people understand complex flows and connections. These diagrams are visually appealing, intuitive, and memorable, making them a useful tool for a wide range of applications in various fields. Creating a Sankey diagram involves collecting the necessary data, creating a data set, choosing a visualization tool, creating the chart, and customizing the chart to enhance its visual appeal and effectiveness. With the right tools and knowledge, you can start creating your own Sankey diagrams today.

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