Sankey Charts are a graph-based visualization tool that allows for the visualization of flows and movements of data, resources, or materials through interconnected networks. Named after Scottish engineer and inventor Captain Matthew Fortescue Sankey, who was the first to use this type of chart to illustrate the flow of energy in a steam engine in 1898, Sankey charts have come a long way since their inception and have now become a powerful tool in data analysis and decision-making processes.
Creating a Sankey Chart
Creating a Sankey chart involves a series of steps tailored to the dataset you want to visualize. Here are the general steps involved in creating a Sankey chart:
Step 1: Prepare Your Data
Collect and prepare the data you want to visualize. This data should include three key elements – the source, intermediate transformations (if any), and the destination of the flow. The data can be in the form of a CSV file, Excel spreadsheet, or any other data format that can be easily read by the data visualization software.
Step 2: Choose Your Software
Select the software you will use to create your Sankey chart. There are various software options available, including Tableau, Power BI, D3.js, and even Excel for basic Sankey diagrams, among others.
Step 3: Define the Nodes and Links
In your chosen software, define the nodes, which represent the sources, destinations, and any intermediate transformations in your data. Then define the links between these nodes, indicating the flows between them.
Step 4: Adjust Visual Properties
Adjust the visual properties of your Sankey chart, such as the width of the links, color schemes, and node labels, to make the chart more visually appealing and easier to understand.
Step 5: Add Interactive Elements (Optional)
If using software that supports it, you can add interactive elements to your Sankey chart, allowing users to filter, sort, or drill down into the data to get more detailed insights.
Step 6: Finalize and Publish the Chart
Once you’ve created and customized your Sankey chart, review it to ensure it accurately and effectively communicates the intended message. Then, publish the chart in a format that suits your needs, such as an embedded web page, a PowerPoint presentation, or a PDF document.
Applications of Sankey Charts
Sankey charts find their applications in a myriad of fields and industries, highlighting the value they offer in understanding complex data flows. Here are some of the common applications:
- Energy and Resource Management: Sankey charts can illustrate the flow of energy or materials through various processes, allowing for better resource allocation and identifying inefficiencies.
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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.
