Sankey charts are a type of visualization tool that can help organizations and individuals understand complex data connections and relationships between different variables. These charts are particularly useful when analyzing flow networks and can provide insights into how resources are distributed and used within a given system.
Creating a sankey chart can be a bit of a challenge, especially if you are new to this type of visualization tool. In this article, we will explore the basics of sankey chart creation and provide some tips and tricks to help you get started.
What is a sankey chart?
A sankey chart is a two-dimensional visual representation of network flow diagrams. It is commonly used to show the flow of resources through a system, such as a supply chain, and to identify areas where there may be inefficiencies or bottlenecks. sankey charts are also commonly used to illustrate the flow of money through a business.
In a sankey chart, the elements are represented by two lines: the “flow” line and the “label” line. The flow line represents the direction of the flow of the resource, and the label line provides information about the flow such as quantity, type, and origin.
Types of sankey chart elements
There are three main types of elements in a sankey chart: the flow elements, label elements, and flow links. Flow elements represent the different resources or processes being analyzed, and label elements provide additional information about those elements. Flow links represent the connections between different flow elements and provide information about the direction and quantity of the flow.
How to create a sankey chart?
Creating a sankey chart involves selecting the flow elements, label elements, and flow links you want to include. There are several tools available for creating sankey charts, including software such as Tableau and Microsoft Visio. You can also use a simple spreadsheet program such as Google Sheets to create a sankey chart.
The process for creating a sankey chart will vary depending on the software you use, but the basic steps are generally the same:
1. Select the flow elements and label elements you want to include in your sankey chart.
2. Use the software to create your sankey chart, adding the flow link between the flow elements and label elements to indicate the direction and quantity of flow.
3. Customize your sankey chart to suit your needs by adding annotations, colors, and other visual elements.
Tips for using sankey charts
Sankey charts are a useful tool for identifying complex data connections and areas of improvement within a system. However, like any visual analysis tool, there are some best practices to keep in mind when using sankey charts to gain insights.
1. Start with the basics: Use sankey charts for analyzing simple, straightforward data connections, and avoid overcomplicating your analysis.
2. Make sure your data is accurate: Sankey charts are only as useful as the data you input. Make sure your data is accurate and up-to-date to get the most out of your sankey chart.
3. Use color and annotations effectively: Color and annotations can help highlight important areas of your sankey chart, such as areas of high flow or high flow elements. Use them to your advantage to gain insights into your data.
4. Interpret your results carefully: Sankey charts can help identify areas of inefficiency or improvement, but you must interpret the data carefully to make informed decisions. Use your intuition and experience to evaluate your results and make decisions based on your analysis.
In conclusion, sankey charts can be a powerful visual tool for identifying complex data connections and areas of improvement within a system. By creating your own sankey chart using a spreadsheet program or software, and using best practices for using sankey charts, you can gain valuable insights into your system and make data-driven decisions.
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