Sankey charts are a type of flow chart that visually represent the distribution and movement of quantities across categories. They were originally developed in the 19th century by mathematician Hermann von Helmholtz to depict the flow of energy in ecosystems. However, these charts have found numerous applications in various fields such as data visualization, material flow analysis, and energy systems, and continue to evolve with advancements in technology.
In this article, we will take a deep dive into the power of Sankey charts and learn how to create them using various software tools. We will also explore the different applications of Sankey charts in industries like market analysis, social sciences, and urban planning.
Creating a Sankey Chart
Sankey diagrams get their name from their distinctive appearance, which resembles a set of stacked rectangles with arrows connecting them. The first step in creating a Sankey chart is to identify the data that you want to visualize. The data should represent the flow of information or materials between different categories.
Next, decide on the categories you want to include in the chart. The categories should be mutually exclusive and exhaustive, meaning that each flow should be classified in only one category. Once you have identified the categories, you can represent them as nodes on the chart.
The next step is to determine the quantitative flow between the categories. This data can be based on historical data or real-time data, depending on the application of the chart. Once you have determined the flow between the categories, you can represent it as a line with arrows connecting the nodes.
Finally, you can tweak the design of the chart, such as color-coding the nodes or lines to represent different variables or adding labels to the nodes and lines for clarity.
Applications of Sankey Charts
Sankey charts have a wide range of applications across different industries. Here are some examples of how they can be used:
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Market analysis: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of products or services between different companies in a supply chain. This can help to identify areas of concern or opportunities for optimization.
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Social Sciences: Sankey diagrams are often used in sociology and political science to represent the flow of resources such as money, social networks, and political influence between different groups or organizations.
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Urban Planning: Sankey charts can help planners visualize the flow of people, goods, and services within a city, highlighting areas of congestion or need for improvement.
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Energy Systems: Sankey diagrams are frequently used in energy systems to represent the flow of energy between different sources, such as fossil fuels, renewable energy, and waste.
In conclusion, Sankey charts are a powerful tool for visualizing the flow of data or resources between different categories. The simplicity of their design and the range of applications make them an ideal tool for a wide range of industries. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily create a compelling Sankey chart to help you unlock insights and optimize your workflows.
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.
