Sankey charts are a type of flow map that visually represents the flow of information or resources in a network. These charts can be used to demonstrate complex data, such as the movement of money, goods, or information in a global supply chain, supply network, or energy system. Understanding how to create and interpret sankey charts can be an important skill for anyone who needs to analyze and communicate information about complex systems in a clear and concise way.
In this article, we will explore the key elements of a sankey chart, how to create one from scratch, and its applications in various industries and fields.
What is a Sankey Chart?
A sankey chart is a type of flow map that visually represents the flow of information or resources in a network. It consists of a central axis, which represents the total flow of information or resources, and a set of nodes and links that represent different components of the system. These nodes and links are connected by lines, which show the flow of information or resources between them.
There are two types of sankey charts: directed and undirected. Directed sankey charts show the flow of information or resources in one direction, while undirected sankey charts show the flow in both directions.
How to Create a Sankey Chart
To create a sankey chart, you will need to gather and organize the data you will be using. This data should be in a structured and organized format, such as a table or spreadsheet.
1. Select a software or tool that can create sankey charts, such as Microsoft Excel, Adobe Illustrator, or Tableau. These tools will allow you to design the layout and format of your sankey chart.
2. Input the data you will be using into the software or tool. Make sure the data is organized and presented in a way that is easy to understand and visually representable.
3. Use the appropriate layout features to create a sankey chart. You can create a directed or undirected sankey chart by adjusting the flow lines and connections.
4. Customize the sankey chart by adding labels, colors, and other visual elements that help to convey the data and information you wish to communicate.
5. Once you have created your sankey chart, test it out to make sure you have done everything correctly. Double-check that the data flow is clear and easy to understand, and that the chart is visually appealing.
Sankey Chart Applications
Sankey charts are commonly used in industries such as finance, supply chain management, and energy to visualize complex data and processes. Here are some of the key ways sankey charts are used in these industries:
1. Finance: Sankey charts can be used to visualize and analyze large data sets related to financial flows such as bank transactions, credit card transactions, and investments. By using directed sankey charts, investors can identify which assets or projects are receiving the most flow of capital, while undirected sankey charts show the potential for growth and investment opportunities.
2. Supply chain: In the world of supply chains, sankey charts can be used to visualize the movement of goods and materials between suppliers, manufacturers, and retailers. By using undirected sankey charts, companies can visualize how different components of the supply chain interact and make data-driven decisions about sourcing, production, and shipment.
3. Energy: Sankey charts can be used in the energy sector to visualize the flow of energy between different sources, such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power. By using directed sankey charts, energy companies can visualize the flow of energy in one direction (e.g., solar to grid), while Undirected sankey charts show the flow in both directions (e.g., wind to solar).
Conclusion
Sankey charts are a powerful and flexible visualization tool for conveying complex data and processes. By organizing and presenting data in a visually engaging way, sankey charts can help to communicate the essential information in a meaningful and impactful way. Whether you are a finance executive, supply chain manager, or energy analyst, a sankey chart can be a valuable addition to your toolkit for clearly understanding and communicating complex data.

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