Sankey charts are a visual representation of flow diagrams, which can be a useful tool in understanding complex systems. In fact, creating and interpreting Sankey charts requires a step-by-step process that helps in understanding their unique features and applications.
To start with, Sankey chart is a type of flow diagram which describes the movement of flow values in an object, network, or process. It can include multiple sources and sinks, which determines the value of the flow between these two ends. It is commonly used in fields such as engineering, economics, and finance.
Now, it’s important to remember that Sankey chart involves creating a graph of flow values by connecting the flow sources and sinks. The key elements in Sankey chart are the ‘nodes’, which represent the sources or sinks, and the ‘links’, which are the lines connecting these nodes. The value of each link represents the amount of flow between sources and sinks. For example, if a flow line connecting a green node to a red node has a value of 30 unit, then this means that there is a flow of 30 units from the green source node to the red sink node.
In Sankey chart applications, nodes can represent different objects, processes or activities while links can represent interactions between these objects. The flow direction is determined by the direction of the arrows pointing from one node to another.
There are five key steps in creating a Sankey chart:
1. Identify the entities (nodes) and their attributes: For example, you may have a network consisting of the following nodes: ‘A’, ‘B’, ‘C’, ‘D’, ‘E’, ‘F’. Each node has a unique attribute or label that can be used to represent the entity.
2. Construct the graph: Connect the nodes using the links. Nodes can be connected to each other, based on their attributes or values. For example, if there is a link connecting node ‘A’ to ‘D’ and a value of 10, then this means that there is a flow of 10 units from node ‘A’ to node ‘D’.
3. Choose the flow direction: The flow direction is determined by the direction of the arrows pointing from one node to another. If there is a positive flow (green arrows) from the nodes, then there is a flow of more units from these nodes to the sinks.
4. Determine the magnitude: Estimate the flow magnitude by checking the number of arrows pointing from each node to a sink node. The arrow heads of arrows pointing to a source should be of the same magnitude as those pointing to the sink.
5. Verify the results: The flow values created in the Sankey chart should logically match the flow values in the network or system.
Sankey charts are an excellent tool for understanding complex systems, and their unique appearance makes them easier to interpret compared to other flow charts. By following the steps outlined above, you can create Sankey charts that accurately summarize the flow values of the objects or processes in your system.
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