Sankey charts are a type of graph used to visualize complex data flow relationships between different sources and sinks. They are often used in fields such as economics, finance, and biology where relationships between variables are fundamental. In this article, we will explore the concept of Sankey charts, how they work, and when they are best used.
What is a Sankey Chart?
A Sankey chart is a two-dimensional graphical representation of data flow relationships. It consists of a set of arrows on a set of links, where each link represents a flow of data sources and sinks. The arrows indicate the direction of the flow, with one arrow pointing towards a source and another pointing towards a sink.
How Sankey Charts Work
There are two basic elements in a Sankey chart: sources and sinks. Sources represent points of input for the flow, while sinks represent points of output. The arrows connecting the sources and sinks represent the direction of the flow, with the sources of the flow on the bottom and the sinks on the top. The length of the arrows represents the amount of the flow, with longer arrows indicating a greater amount of the flow.
Using Sankey Charts
Sankey charts can be used to visualize a wide range of data flow relationships. For example, in the field of economics, Sankey charts can be used to visualize the movement of capital and labor across different industries. In biology, Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of materials and nutrients between different organs and tissues. In finance, Sankey charts can be used to visualize the movement of money from one account to another.
When to Use Sankey Charts
Sankey charts are best used for visualizing data flow relationships that are complex and difficult to represent in a simpler chart. These include relationships between different parts of a system, as well as relationships between different variables in a data set. Sankey charts are also useful for visualizing relationships between two or more data sets, such as the relationship between income and education level in a population.
Conclusion
Sankey charts are a valuable tool for visualizing data flow relationships in complex systems. They offer a way to represent relationships between different variables and can be used in a wide range of fields. Whether used for economics, biology, finance, or any other field, Sankey charts can be an effective way to communicate complex data flow relationships.
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.
