Sankey charts are an extremely effective way to visualize data and relationships in a graphical format. From complex networks of organizations, processes, and flows within a data-driven environment, to the visual representation of product development and manufacturing, Sankey charts are equally captivating and informative. In this article, we’ll delve into what makes a Sankey chart a powerful tool and how to create it.

What is a Sankey Chart?

A Sankey chart, also known as a “flow diagram” or a “flowchart,” is a type of diagrammatic representation of dataflows, data flows, and other data flows. It consists of a series of nodes connected by lines, each labeled with information about a type of data flow, and color-coding to highlight the direction of the flow. The chart is organized hierarchically, with the nodes representing the source, target, or intermediate point, and the lines representing the flow direction.

Sankey charts are excellent for visualizing complex data and relationships in a visual format. They are particularly helpful in showing the order of flow, the direction of flow, the amount of flow, and other aspects of information in a clear, concise manner.

Application of a Sankey Chart

Sankey charts are widely used in various domains, including business, engineering, design, science, and more, to visualize data flows and information. Here are a few key applications of a Sankey chart:

1. Business: A Sankey chart can be used to show the relationships between various departments, companies, and suppliers, and the flows of products, investments, and revenues between them.

2. Engineering: A Sankey chart can be used to show the relationships between various components of an engineering system, such as circuits, mechanical components, and energy conversion.

3. Science: A Sankey chart can be used to visualize the flow of information and data across a research project, the flow of knowledge, and the distribution of participants in a research community.

Sankey Chart Usage: Sample Example

Let’s take an example to illustrate the usage of Sankey charts in practice. Imagine you are working on a project to design a new manufacturing process that involves multiple stages of production, each of which has a specific flow and amount of data.

To visualize this, you can create a Sankey chart that includes the following components:

• Source node indicates the start of the process

• Destination node indicates the end of the process

• Lines connecting the source and destination nodes indicate the flow of data between them

The diagram should show the type of data flow (e.g., part number, material, energy) as well as the direction of flow (outgoing, incoming).

Sample Data and Flow

For the sample project:

• The source node is labeled “Initial Stage”
• The destination node is labeled “Final Product”
• The lines connecting the source and destination nodes indicate the following type of data flows:
  • Energy flow: from component A energy source to component A energy sink
  • Material flow: from component A material source to component A material sink
  • Part number flow: from initial part number generator to final part number accumulator
  • Component B part number flow: from B part number generator to B part number accumulator
  • Component B material flow: from B material source to B material sink

Sankey Chart Instructions: Creating a Sankey Chart

Creating a Sankey chart is as simple as a few clicks. Here’s how you can create a Sankey chart:

1. Open Microsoft Excel: Choose “Insert” > “Chart” > “Sankey Chart” in the main ribbon or right-click “Insert” and select “Sankey Chart.”

2. Add Nodes and Labels: Right-click each cell in the first row to place a node, choose the “Source Label” option to enter the type of data flow in the cell, and click on the next column to insert labels, and choose the “Destination Label” option for the destination node.

3. Add and color-code lines: Right-click on a line and choose the “Line Options” option. Select the color-coded lines, choose “Flow Direction” and colorize flow direction.

4. Adjust layout: You can adjust the layout of the chart by selecting “Layout Properties,” and choosing the layout style you need.

Sankey Charts – Getting Started

Sankey charts can be a bit complex at first, but once you’re familiar with the basics, creating maps may become as simple as rearranging a few nodes and lines. It’s also important to learn how to color code lines to show the direction of flow clearly. Here are some tips that can help you get started:

• Choose appropriate color codes that reflect the direction of flow. Flow in the same direction has a similar color, and there are various options available, such as dark blue, green, dark orange, or purple.
• Use the drag-and-drop interface of the Sankey chart. There’s an option that allows you to click and drag the edges and nodes to rearrange the data flow.
• Experiment with different layouts and layout styles to get the best representation of your data flow.

Conclusion

Sankey charts are a concise, easy-to-understand, and interactive way to visualize data and relationships. They are particularly effective in illustrating complex data flows and relationships in a visually appealing format. With the right customization and training, a Sankey chart can be used in various domains with great success.

In conclusion, Sankey charts are powerful visual tools that can be used to represent data and relationships in a clear and effective manner. Whether you’re dealing with business, engineering, scientific research, or any other field, you can use a Sankey chart to represent your data and relationships in a compelling way. With this article, you should now have a clear understanding of what a Sankey chart is, its versatility and its importance.

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.