Sankey charts are a unique graphical technique that are used to visualize complex data flow in a simple and easy-to-understand way. These charts are commonly used in fields such as engineering, economics, education, and business, where understanding how information moves between different entities is essential. In this article, we will discuss the key features of a Sankey chart and its applications, as well as how to create one.
What is a Sankey Chart?
A Sankey chart is a type of flowchart that is based on the idea of a series of tubes or channels. The chart typically has a central hub or source, which represents the starting point of the flow, and a series of tubes or channels that connect to it. The tubes are labeled with the flow directions and volumes of each item, and can be arranged in any order.
Key Features of a Sankey Chart
A Sankey chart has several key features that make it an effective visual tool for analyzing data flows:
- Flow directions: Sankey charts use flow directions to show the flow of information from one entity to another. This makes it easy to see which flow is carrying more or less data than others.
- Tube labels: The tube labels on a Sankey chart provide important metadata about the flow. They indicate the flow direction, the volume of data, and other relevant information.
- Tube sizes: The sizes of the tubes on a Sankey chart can be used to represent the volumes of data that each flow carries. For example, large tubes can represent high volumes of data while smaller tubes indicate low volumes.
- Source and sink nodes: Finally, Sankey charts have a central source node and a sink node, which make it easier to identify the starting and ending points of the flow.
Applications of Sankey Charts
Sankey charts are frequently used in fields such as engineering, economics, education, and business, where understanding how information moves between different entities is essential. In these applications, the following use cases are most common:
1. Engineering: Sankey charts are used to visualize how various processes flow through the system, such as how different components work together or how a system is controlled.
2. Economics: Sankey charts are used to visualize the flow of information in supply chains, such as how different stages of the process are interrelated.
3. Education: Sankey charts can also be used to visualize the flow of information within a classroom or school, such as how different students are interrelated.
4. Business: Sankey charts are used to visualize the flow of information within a business, such as how different departments are interrelated and how data flows between them.
Creating a Sankey Chart
Creating a Sankey chart is relatively simple with the right software and tools. One popular type of software for creating Sankey charts is the NetLogo platform, which is widely used in engineering and economics. With NetLogo, you simply need to define the flow using the flow directions and tube labels, and the software will automatically generate the chart for you.
Another option is to use a computer software such as Microsoft Visio, which provides a wide range of templates for visualizing the flow of information. There are also many online tools like Sankey.io that can help in creating Sankey charts easily.
Conclusion
Sankey charts are a powerful tool for visualizing complex data flow. With their unique features and applications, they offer a fresh perspective on how information flows between different entities. Whether you are a field professional, a student, or a business manager, learning to use a Sankey chart can help you gain a deeper understanding of how information moves through the system.
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.
