Sankey charts are a type of visualization tool that allows you to show the flow of data from one point to another. They are particularly useful for exploring the dynamics of information flow in multiple interrelated systems, such as processes, networks or economic flows.
In this article, we will explore the secrets of creating and understanding Sankey charts, and some of the applications of this type of visualization in everyday life. By understanding how to create and use Sankey charts, you can gain insights into the relationships between different data points and can use them to create more effective decision making processes.
To get started, let’s take a closer look at what a Sankey chart is:
A Sankey chart consists of a series of arrows that connect individual nodes or elements to other elements in relation to their flow of information or data. The length of the arrows represents the amount of flow or data that is flowing between the two connected nodes. The size and direction of the arrows can be used to indicate the flow direction or directionality of the data or information.
To understand how a Sankey chart works, we need to look at some basic principles:
- Each node in the Sankey chart represents a different entity or element.
- Edges between nodes represent the flow of information or data from one node to the other.
- The length of the arrow indicates the amount of the flow or data.
- The direction of the arrow can indicate the flow direction.
For example, a Sankey chart can be used to demonstrate the flow of information or data between various departments in a company. The nodes represent the different departments, and the edges connect the departments to each other based on their relationship or flow of data. The arrow length can indicate how much data is being shared between the different departments, while the arrow direction can indicate the flow of data or information.
Now, let’s look at some examples of how Sankey charts are used in real-life applications. Here are a few examples:
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Economic Flow: An example of using Sankey charts to visualize economic flow is in a country’s Balance of Payments book, which shows the balance between imports and exports. By using Sankey charts, economists can easily see the flow of goods, services, and capital between different countries and track changes in the global economy.
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Supply Chain Flow: Companies can use Sankey charts to visualize the flow of information and data between various parts of their supply chain, including suppliers, manufacturers, distributors and retailers. By doing so, they can identify bottlenecks, efficiency issues and other potential problems that can impact the overall productivity and efficiency of the supply chain.
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Product Flow: Sankey charts can also be used to visualize the flow of products from one point to another in the manufacturing process. By tracking the flow of materials and components from one department in the process to another, companies can identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies and other issues that can impact the overall production process.
To create a Sankey chart, you will need the following tools:
- Software: There are many software options available for creating Sankey charts, ranging from simple online tools to complex software solutions. Examples include D3.js, Graphstream, and Tableau Software.
- Data: You’ll need data that you want to visualize on a Sankey chart. This could include information on the flow of data or information between different nodes, or data on the number of nodes and edges per node.
- Layout tools: Once you’ve created your data, you’ll need to layout the Sankey chart using a layout tool. This will allow you to arrange the nodes and edges in a way that best represents the flow of data or information. Some popular layout tools include D3.js, and Tableau Software.
Using Sankey charts is a powerful tool for understanding the dynamics of data flow and can provide valuable insights into complex relationships between different data points. By understanding how to create and use Sankey charts, you can gain a better understanding of the flow of data and information in various systems and can use this knowledge to make more informed decisions and take more effective actions.
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.
