Sankey charts are a powerful tool for visualizing complex processes. With the right understanding and application of these charts, you can gain a deeper insight into how different elements of a process are interconnected, and how changes in one aspect of the process can affect other elements. In this article, we will explore the basics of Sankey charts, how to create them, and provide you with some applications and examples. Let’s dive in!

Basic Understanding of Sankey Charts

A Sankey chart is a graphical representation of a process or a network of activities. It is a flow diagram that shows the flow of data or information between different elements. The chart consists of two parallel lines, or Sankeys, on which can be drawn links connecting different elements. The links are assigned a specific value or measure indicating the rate of flow of the element. When connected, the links represent the flow of data or information between the elements.

There are different types of Sankey charts, each with its specific use case. For example, there are flowcharts, where the elements correspond to actions that are being taken, and the links relate to the duration of the actions; there are also capacity charts, which show the allocation of resources across different elements in a process. In general, Sankey charts can be applied to almost any type of process or network, depending on the specific elements and information that you want to visualize.

Creating a Sankey Chart

Creating a Sankey chart can be done manually or using software tools. The process depends on the type of Sankey chart. For example, a flowchart, a capacity chart, or a capacity diagram can be created manually, with the help of pen and paper. However, a complex process might require the use of a tool like D3.js or ArcGIS to create a Sankey chart.

Alternatively, an online tool like SankeyCreator provides an easy-to-use interface for generating Sankey charts. All you need to do is enter the data and parameters of your process, and SankeyCreator will visualize it for you.

Applications and Examples

Sankey charts are widely used in various industries and fields. They offer a unique way of visualizing complex networks and processes, and provide a powerful tool for analyzing and understanding these networks.

In the healthcare industry, Sankey charts can be used to visualize how medication is ordered and dispensed in a pharmacy. The chart shows the flow of medication from the pharmacy to doctors’ offices and patients.

In the energy industry, a Sankey chart can be used to visualize how different components of a power plant are interconnected. For example, the chart can display the flow of electricity from generating plants to transmission lines to distribution lines to homes.

In the construction industry, Sankey charts can be used to visualize the flow of materials and labor across different stages of a construction project. This can help project managers and stakeholders understand the flow of resources and make decisions based on that information.

As you can see, Sankey charts can be applied in almost any field that involves complex processes or networks. However, it’s important to note that the effectiveness of the chart depends on the quality of the data used and the interpretation of the data. Therefore, it’s important to consult with experts such as data scientists and engineers to ensure that the chart is accurate and useful.

In conclusion

Sankey charts are a powerful tool for analyzing complex processes. With the right understanding and application, they can provide a deep insight into how different elements of a process are interconnected, and how changes in one aspect of the process can affect other elements. Whether you’re analyzing a healthcare process, an energy network, or a construction project, Sankey charts can help you gain a better understanding of the system and make data-driven decisions.

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.