Sankey chart is one of the most powerful and versatile data visualization tools that allow users to explore complex relationships between different data elements. It is a type of diagram that visualizes the flow of data between different sources and destinations. The data is represented as nodes, which have labels or symbols, and lines that connect those nodes with arrows that indicate the direction and capacity of the flow. In this article, we will explore the secrets of Sankey chart and how to effectively create and apply this type of visualization tool using real-world examples.

What is a Sankey Chart?
A Sankey chart is a type of diagram that visualizes the flow of data between different sources and destinations. It is a type of network diagram that uses rectangular shapes to represent nodes, and arrows to represent the flow of data. The most common type of Sankey chart is the “flow chart” where data flows from left to right.

Applications of Sankey Chart
Sankey chart can be used in a wide range of applications, including business, finance, economics, social sciences, and engineering. Some of the most common applications include:

1. Resource flow analysis – Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of resources between different parties, such as suppliers, sellers, and customers.
2. Food chain analysis – Sankey charts can be used to represent the flow of food from farm to table, allowing for an understanding of the impact of food production on the environment and human health.
3. Water flow analysis – Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of water in a specific region or city, allowing for an understanding of water availability and potential shortages.

Creating a Sankey Chart
Creating a Sankey chart is relatively easy, but it requires some understanding of the data you are trying to visualize. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating a Sankey chart:

1. Identify the data elements you want to visualize. These could be different industries, cities, countries, or regions.
2. Collect the data for your visualization. Make sure that the data is accurate and up-to-date.
3. Decide on the shape of the nodes you want to use in your Sankey chart. This could be either rectangles or circles.
4. Draw your nodes and connect them with arrows, using the data you collected for the visualization. The arrows should indicate both the direction and capacity of the flow.
5. Add labels or symbols to each node, representing the type of data being visualized.

Using Sankey Chart
Once your Sankey chart is created, you can use it to make connections between different data elements. Here’s how:

1. Use the arrows to show the direction of flow.
2. Use the capacity of the arrows to show the flow rate.
3. Add colors to nodes or arrows to represent the flow direction, capacity, and data type.

Sankey chart can be used to show the flow of data in different industries or regions, such as data flow through companies, food chains, or water resources. Sankey chart also helps to understand the impact of different factors, such as population, economy, or production capacity, on the flow of resources.

Conclusion
Sankey chart is a powerful tool for visualizing complex relationships between different data elements. By understanding the basics of creating and using a Sankey chart, you can make meaningful connections between different data sets, understand the flow of resources, and identify areas of improvement or opportunity. So, next time you need to visualize complex data, don’t hesitate to use a Sankey chart.

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