Sankey charts are a powerful tool for visualizing flows, and they can help you make sense of complex data and relationships that are difficult to grasp at a glance. In this article, we will explore the world of Sankey charts, discuss how they are created, and explore their many applications.

What is a Sankey chart?

A Sankey chart is a type of flow chart that uses arrows to show the movement of data, resources, or materials from one place to another. Each arrow, also known as a “link,” is accompanied by a color-coded band that indicates the quantity, quality, or value of the data being transferred. The width of the band reflects the amount of data being transferred at each point in the flow.

Why Sankey charts?

One of the most significant benefits of using Sankey charts is that they can help you visualize complex data sets and relationships. By representing data flows with arrows and bands, Sankey charts make it easier to see how data moves between different sources and destinations, highlight trends and patterns, and identify areas that might require further investigation.

Applications of Sankey charts

Sankey charts can be applied in a variety of settings, including energy systems, transportation, and commerce. Let’s look at a few examples:

1. Energy systems: Sankey charts can be useful for visualizing energy flows in systems like power grids or oil and gas pipelines. By representing energy sources, consumption points, and conversion processes, Sankey charts can highlight inefficiencies and identify areas for improvement.
2. Transportation systems: Sankey charts can visualize transportation flows, such as the movement of passengers or goods between different modes of transport (air, sea, road, etc.), and in different regions or countries. This can help stakeholders optimize routes, plan infrastructure development, and identify bottlenecks.
3. Commerce and trade: Sankey charts can represent flows of goods and services between countries, industries, or supply chains. By identifying the most significant trade partners and highlighting trade imbalances, Sankey charts can provide valuable insights into global commerce.

Creating Sankey charts

Creating a Sankey chart involves several steps. Here’s a basic guide to help you get started:

1. Gather data: Collect data on the sources, flows, and destinations of the system you want to represent. This could include information on quantities, values, or relationships.
2. Identify categories: Determine the categories for the sources, flows, and destinations based on your data. These categories will function as the nodes in your Sankey diagram.
3. Create the diagram: Use a Sankey chart tool or software, such as Microsoft Excel, Tableau, or online platforms like SankeyChart.js, to build your diagram. You’ll need to input the data for sources, flows, and destinations, as well as the quantitative or qualitative values you want to convey.
4. Customize the appearance: Adjust the colors, weights, and arrow styles to effectively communicate the data. Ensure that the chart is readable and aesthetically pleasing.
5. Analyze and interpret: Review your Sankey chart to identify patterns, trends, and areas for improvement. Use the chart to inform decisions, strategies, and policies.

The journey of a Sankey chart

Creating a Sankey chart involves multiple iterations, and the success of your chart relies on refining the data and visual representation. Here’s a flowchart to illustrate the process:

1. Data collection: Gather the necessary data to represent the flows in your system.
2. Data organization: Categorize the data into sources, flows, and destinations based on your project’s requirements.
3. Chart creation: Use Sankey chart tools to build your diagram, inputting data and specifying relationships and values.
4. Customization and refinement: Adjust the appearance of your chart, including colors, weights, and arrow styles, to ensure clarity and readability.
5. Analysis and interpretation: Examine the chart for insights and patterns, and use the information to inform decision-making.
6. Iterative improvement: Refine the chart based on feedback and additional data, creating an ever-more insightful representation of your system.

Harnessing the power of Sankey charts

Sankey charts provide a unique way to visualize complex flows of data, energy, resources, or materials. By leveraging this powerful tool, you can gain a deeper understanding of patterns, relationships, and trends within your data set. Whether you’re analyzing energy systems, transportation networks, or global commerce, the process of creating and interpreting Sankey charts can help you unlock valuable insights and make more informed decisions.

As you embark on your next data visualization project, consider incorporating Sankey charts into your toolkit. With their ability to represent intricate flows in a simple, visually compelling manner, Sankey charts can help you make sense of even the most complex data sets and create actionable insights.

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.