Sankey charts are a powerful data visualization tool that can help you understand complex information in a new and engaging manner. These charts are particularly useful for presenting information about energy flow, money flow, and other interrelated entities.
In this article, we will explore how to use Sankey charts to unlock the power of data visualization and streamline decision making. We will provide examples of how to create these charts, as well as tips for interpreting and using them effectively.
Creating Sankey Charts
A Sankey chart is essentially a network diagram with an additional feature. The first part of the chart – the flow diagram – represents the flow of information or resources between entities. The second part – the flow lines between the entities – are used to represent the direction of the flow.
Here is an example of a Sankey chart:

Flow diagram
|A| -> |B| -> |C| -> |D|
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 30 | 18 | 40


In this example, A is a resource and B and C are entities that use that resource. D represents an outcome of the resource usage. The flow lines between the entities represent the direction of the resource flow.
To create a Sankey chart, you need to decide on the type of flow data you want to represent. For example, if you want to represent traffic flow, you would use a Sankey chart with arrows showing the direction of traffic flow.
Here are the steps you can follow to create a Sankey chart:
– Choose the type of flow data you want to represent
– Determine the flow direction and type (e.g. traffic flow)
– Draw the flow diagram using flow arrows to represent the flow direction and type.
– Use colors and shapes to represent the different entities and resources.
– Draw flow lines between the entities to represent the direction of the flow.
Now that we know how to create a Sankey chart, we will discuss how to use them effectively.
Interpreting Sankey Charts
Once you have created your Sankey chart, there are several things you can do to interpret and use the data effectively.
First, use the flow diagram to identify the entities and entities that are central to the flow. These entities are the ones that have a high level of interaction with each other and are worth highlighting.
Second, use the flow lines to identify the direction and type of the flow. For example, if you want to analyze the flow of energy use in a building, you might use yellow or green flow lines to represent the flow and colors to represent the type of energy (e.g. coal, solar, etc.).
Third, use the flow lines to identify the magnitude of the flow. For example, you could use the size of the arrows to represent the flow or color to represent the flow type.
In summary, Sankey charts are a powerful tool for visualizing complex data and helping you understand it more clearly. By using the flow diagram and flow lines to identify entities, directions, flow types, and flows, you can gain valuable insights into your data and make informed decisions based on that data.

SankeyMaster

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