Sankey Charts: Visualizing Flow and Connection in a Snap

Sankey charts, also known as flow charts or link charts, have been a popular and effective tool for visualizing the flow and connections between different data points. These charts are named after Captain Matthew Henry Phiri and Charles Henry Skerrett, who first used the term “Sankey” in the 1890s after observing how the Sankey Mines in New Zealand produced and distributed coal. Since then, Sankey charts have become a valuable tool in a wide range of industries and fields, and many software options are now available to create these charts quickly and efficiently.

In this article, we will explore the origins of Sankey charts, the benefits of using them, and the various software options available for creating Sankey charts. We will also look at some real-world applications of Sankey charts and what insights they can reveal.

Origins of Sankey Charts

Sankey charts were first used to represent the flow of coal through the Sankey Mines in New Zealand in the 1890s. These charts were used to highlight the sources and destinations of the coal, as well as the volume of coal passing through each stage of the process.

Today, Sankey charts are used to represent a wide range of flows and connections, such as financial transactions, data flows, and resource consumption. These charts can help businesses and organizations understand how resources are moving between different points in the system, which can help optimize processes and identify areas for improvement.

Benefits of Sankey Charts

Sankey charts offer several benefits that make them an effective tool for visualizing data:

1. Clarity and simplicity – Sankey charts’ visual representation makes it easy to understand the flow of data, even in complex systems. The width of the lines in the chart indicates the volume of flow, which makes it easy to identify where the most significant activities are occurring.
2. Highlighting connections – Sankey charts can help identify the connections between different data points, which is essential for understanding how different parts of an organization or system interact. This insight can help businesses and organizations optimize processes and identify areas for improvement.
3. Telling stories – Sankey charts are visually engaging and can be used to tell compelling stories about how data moves through a system. They can help users understand the impact of different factors on the flow of data and help leaders make informed decisions.

Software Options for Creating Sankey Charts

There are many software options available for creating Sankey charts, including:

1. Microsoft Excel – Excel has a built-in Sankey chart tool that can be used to create charts quickly and easily. However, the functionality and customization options are limited compared to other software options.
2. Canva – Canva is a user-friendly design tool that includes a Sankey chart template. It is an excellent option for individuals who are new to creating Sankey charts or looking for a simple, intuitive tool.
3. Tableau – Tableau is a powerful data visualization tool that includes a Sankey chart tool. It is an excellent option for businesses and organizations who need to create complex Sankey charts with detailed data.
4. NetworkD3 – NetworkD3 is a JavaScript-based library for creating Sankey charts. It offers advanced customization options and is ideal for developers who want to create custom Sankey charts for their applications.

Real-World Applications of Sankey Charts

There are countless real-world applications of Sankey charts, including:

1. Energy consumption – Sankey charts can be used to visualize energy consumption in buildings or systems. They can help identify which areas consume the most energy, which can help businesses and organizations optimize energy use and reduce costs.
2. Supply chain management – Sankey charts can help businesses track the flow of materials and products throughout the supply chain. This insight can help identify bottlenecks, optimize processes, and reduce costs.
3. Financial transactions – Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of funds between different accounts or institutions. They can help banks and other financial institutions understand the

continue flow and identify areas of potential fraud or risk.

In conclusion, Sankey charts are a valuable tool for visualizing the flow and connections between data points. They offer clarity, simplicity, and the ability to highlight connections, making them a powerful tool for businesses and organizations looking to optimize processes and make informed decisions. With a wide range of software options available for creating Sankey charts, it’s easy to get started and start unlocking insights today.

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.