Sankey charts, also known as force-directed graphical data visualization, are used to represent complex network data with their source, destination, and flows. They are one of the most versatile and useful tools of network analysis.
Sankey charts are used in various fields like engineering, sociology, political science, and operations management. They offer a unique perspective on the data flow in the network. Sankey charts are simple to create but can produce highly complex and insightful results. In this article, we will explore the basics of Sankey charts for beginners and then move on to their applications in different sectors.
Creating a Sankey Chart
A Sankey chart is created by placing nodes on the x-axis and flow lines on the y-axis. The flow lines connect the nodes to form a closed loop. Depending on the complexity of the network, the nodes and flow lines can be placed in a variety of ways, including overlapping, clustering or even overlapping with a diagram.
The first step in creating a Sankey chart involves creating source and target nodes. These nodes are the central points of the network that define the direction and flow of the data. The nodes are typically depicted as circles or squares and are labeled with the value of the flow they represent.
Once the source and target nodes are determined, the flow lines can be drawn. These lines are typically horizontal and appear as lines extending from the source node to the target node. The length of the line represents the flow rate in the network, and the width of the line indicates the flow rate from the source to the target.
The color of the flow lines is used to distinguish between different flows. Each flow has a different color, and they are arranged according to the direction of the flow. The color of the flow lines is often represented by a shade of blue, green, red, or purple, depending on the color scheme used in the visualization.
Adding Data to a Sankey Chart
To add data to a Sankey chart, you need to fill in the gaps in the network flow lines. This can be done manually or using an automated process that generates the missing data values. The data can be derived from various sources such as historical data, survey data, or real-time data.
Once you have added the data, you can adjust the flow lines to match the new flow. For example, by changing the direction or the width of the flow lines, you can show how different flows are related. You can also add labels to help users identify the source and target nodes.
Applications of Sankey Charts
The applications of Sankey charts are diverse and have been used in various fields like political science, sociology, marketing, and manufacturing.
In political science, Sankey charts are used to visualize complex political networks. They can help policymakers understand the flow of power and influence in the political system. Sankey charts can also be used in sociology to visualize social networks, such as friendship, family, or romantic relationships.
In marketing, Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of buying and selling of products in the market. This can help marketers understand the relationships between different sellers, buyers, and products.
In manufacturing, Sankey charts can help manufacturers visualize the flow of materials in different stages of production. This can help them optimize the flow of materials and reduce waste.
Conclusion
Sankey charts are a powerful and versatile tool for visualizing complex data flow and network data. They can be used in various fields, from politics to sociology to manufacturing. By creating and applying Sankey charts, you can gain insights into the data flow in complex networks and take informed decisions. Whether you’re a professional or an individual, you can leverage Sankey charts to make better-informed decision making and improve your operations.

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