Sankey charts, also known as channel flow diagrams, are a powerful tool for understanding flow and networks in a visual format. These diagrams are particularly useful for visualizing complex networks, such as those in chemistry, biology, and electrical engineering, where the flow of information or matter through a network can be complex or non-linear. In this article, we will explore the basics of Sankey charts and provide a visual guide to their creation and applications.
Overview of Sankey Charts
Sankey charts are a type of network diagram where the nodes represent different entities or types of flows, and the lines represent the direction and amount of flow between those entities. The chart typically includes a set of vertical and horizontal lines that represent the flow of different entities, and arrows indicating the direction of flow between those entities. The purpose of a Sankey chart is to visually represent the flow of information or matter through a network, and to highlight any key relationships or patterns in the data presented.
Creating a Sankey Chart
The process of creating a Sankey chart involves several steps:
1. Start by defining the entities in your network.
2. Determine the direction of each entity.
3. Calculate the flow rate for each entity by dividing the amount of flow by the time period.
4. Choose the appropriate symbols and colors for the entities and arrows.
5. Draw the vertical and horizontal lines to represent the flow of entities, and add the appropriate arrows to indicate the direction of flow.
6. Arrange the entities on the chart in the desired manner to show the flow of information or matter.
7. Review the chart to make sure it is easy to read and understand.
Applications of Sankey Charts
Sankey charts are widely used in a variety of fields, including:
- Chemical engineering: These charts can be used to visualize the flow of chemicals and their interactions within a process.
- Biology: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of information and matter within a biological system, such as in the flow of genes or proteins.
- Electrical engineering: Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of electrical signals within a network, such as to visualize the flow of current in an electrical circuit.
- Logistics and supply chain: These charts can be used to visualize the flow of materials and products within a supply chain, or to visualize the supply and demand for a particular product in the market.
- Marketing and sales: These charts can be used to visualize the flow of information or messages within a marketing campaign, or to visualize the buyer/seller relationship within a sales process.
Conclusion
Sankey charts are a powerful tool for visualizing flow and networks in a clear and intuitive format. By using the appropriate symbols and colors, and arranging the entities and arrows in the desired manner, it is possible to create a Sankey chart that is easy to read and understand, and can help to highlight any key relationships or patterns in the data presented. In conclusion, Sankey charts are a valuable tool for anyone working with complex networks or trying to visualize how information or matter flows through a 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.
