Sankey charts are a powerful tool for visualizing complex process relationships and data. Not only do they make it easier to understand the connections between different components, but they also provide a clear representation of the flow of data and information throughout a system.
In this article, we will discuss in depth what a sankey chart is, how to create one, and some applications of this tool. We will also look at some best practices for using sankey charts effectively.
What is a Sankey Chart?
A Sankey chart is a graphically presented flow diagram that uses a Sankey line for identifying the flow of information or data between components. It is a combination of a bar chart and a flow chart, combining the traditional representation of a data set with the visual representation of a flow in a series of arcs (which are also called sankey lines).
Sankey line can be used to symbolize the flow of information or data through a system, with arrows indicating the direction of the flow. The nodes represent the components of the system and the arcs that connect between them represent the flow of information or data between them.
Creating a Sankey Chart
Sankey charts can be created in a variety of software applications, including Microsoft Power BI, Tableau, and Google Data Visualization (formerly Google Chart). To create a sankey chart, follow these steps:
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Define the components of your system: List all the various components that you want to represent in your sankey chart.
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Define the flow of information or data: Decide which components are connected by which arcs, and define their flow.
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Create the sankey line: Draw lines connecting the sankey nodes. The line connecting the nodes can be curved, linear, or any other shape.
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Label the sankey line: Assign unique labels to each of the nodes connected by the sankey lines.
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Format the graph: Add labels or legends to the sankey chart to indicate the flow of information.
Sankey Charts in Applications
Sankey charts are widely used in various applications such as supply chain management, project management, and information flow analysis. Let us look some applications of sankey charts:
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Supply Chain Management: Sankey charts are used in supply chain management to visualize the flow of products and information between components like suppliers, vendors, warehouses, and customers. This enables management to easily identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies in the supply chain.
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Project Management: A project manager may use a sankey chart to visualize the flow of resources and tasks between different team members. This can help them understand the resource allocation and time pressure involved in the project.
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Information Flow Analysis: A company may use a sankey chart to analyze the flow of information between different departments or teams. This can help them identify areas where communication may be lost or where information may be incorrectly shared.
Best Practices for Using Sankey Charts
Using sankey charts effectively is essential to understanding the flow of data and information in complex systems. Below are some best practices for using sankey charts:
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Clearly define the nodes and arcs in your sankey chart: This helps ensure that the flow of information is represented accurately.
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Label the arc labels clearly: This helps in identifying the direction of the flow of information.
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Apply color and line styles to distinguish between the components in your sankey chart: This makes it easy to identify the different sections in the system.
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Use legends to explain the labels: Most applications have legends that explain the meaning of the labels on the sankey chart.
In conclusion, sankey charts are a powerful tool for visualizing complex process relationships and data. With the right guidance and best practices, sankey charts can be used to make more informed decisions and improve efficiency in various applications. Whether you are a supply chain manager, a project manager, or a data analyst, you should give a sankey chart a try.
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.
