Sankey charts are a type of data visualization that can help you compare and analyze complex relationships between variables. They are particularly useful for displaying the flow of information through a network or a system, such as the way that water or oil moves through a network of pipes.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the basics of sankey charts, how to create one, and how they can be applied to different types of networks or systems. We will also discuss the power of sankey charts and how they can help unlock insights and create efficient solutions.
What are Sankey Charts?
A sankey chart is a type of network or flow diagram that allows you to see the flow of information through a network. It consists of a horizontal axis on the left hand side and a vertical axis on the right hand side. The axis represents time, with each point along the axis representing a specific element or variable in the network.
Each element in the network is assigned a color, which is often used to represent the direction of the flow of information. For example, if water is flowing in a specific direction through a network of pipes, you may color the pipes that carry the water a specific color, and the non-colored pipes would represent the reverse direction of the flow.
What does a Sankey Chart Look Like?
The most common shape of a sankey chart is a square or rectangle with a horizontal and vertical axis. The horizontal axis represents the time axis, and the vertical axis represents the elements or variables in the network. Each point along the axis can represent a specific element or variable, and the color of each point can indicate the direction of the flow of information.
Here is a basic example of a sankey chart, using the water flow example we mentioned earlier:
Water Flow Sankey Chart
This chart shows how water flows from a well to various sources such as rain, rivers, and lakes. The colors used to color the pipes indicate the direction of the flow, with the water flowing from the top and carrying it down the pipes. On the left hand side of the chart, you will see the time axis, with each element or variable in the network having an associated point along the axis.
Creating a Sankey Chart
While a sankey chart can be created with software, it is also possible to create one using pen and paper. Here are the basic steps to create a sankey chart:
1. Draw a rectangle on the left hand side of the page.
2. Draw the vertical axis on the right hand side.
3. Draw the horizontal axis on the left hand side, and label it with the time axis.
4. Draw the elements or variables in the network on the line connecting them.
5. Assign each element a color, indicating the direction of the flow of information.
6. Use arrows or arrows to connect the points on the axis that represent the flow of information.
After you have created your sankey chart, you can customize it further by adding labels, text, or annotations. You can also change the color of the elements to reflect more information or add more detail to the chart.
Applications of Sankey Charts
Sankey charts can be applied to a wide range of networks or systems, such as water systems, energy flow, and food production. Here are some examples of how sankey charts can be used:
1. Water Flow
Sankey charts can be used to display how water flows through a water system, such as a network of pipes or a river. They can be used to show the location of sources such as rainfall, rivers, and lakes and the location of sinks such as taps and reservoirs.
2. Energy Flow
Sankey charts can be used to display how energy flows through an energy system. These charts can be used to show the flow of electricity from power plants to homes and businesses.
3. Food Production
Sankey charts can be used to display how food is produced through the supply and demand chain. They can be used to show how ingredients are sourced and transported through the supply chain.
Unlocking the Power of Sankey Charts
While the basics of sankey charts may seem simple, they can be very powerful. They allow you to see the flow of information through a network or a system more clearly and effectively than other types of visualizations. By using sankey charts, you can
create more efficient and effective solutions by identifying where information is flowing and how it flows.
In conclusion, sankey charts are a powerful tool for understanding and interpreting complex relationships between variables. Whether you are working with water, energy, or food production, sankey charts can help you to see the flow of information more clearly and make data-driven decisions.

SankeyMaster

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