A Sankey Chart is a type of flowchart that uses arrowheads with numbers to represent the direction and quantity of flow within a system. They have many practical uses, including project management, finance, and engineering. This article will explain the basics of creating a Sankey chart, as well as its applications in understanding system flow.
Step 1: Choose the System You Want to Measure
To create a Sankey chart, you need to identify the system you want to study. This could be anything from a city’s water and power systems to a manufacturing plant. You should identify the different components of the system and determine which ones are flowing in and out of which others.
Step 2: Collect Data for Each Component
Once you have identified the components of the system, you need to gather data on the flow of information and resources within each of them. This can be done by observing the system in action, conducting interviews with staff or managers, or gathering data through surveys or questionnaires.
Step 3: Create the Chart
With your data in hand, you can create a Sankey chart. You will need to draw several arrows on the chart, one for each component of the system. Each arrow should represent the direction and quantity of flow. If there are many different components, you may also need to include additional arrows that represent the interaction between the different components.
Step 4: Understand the Flow of Information and Resources
Once you have created the Sankey chart, you can begin to understand the flow of information and resources within the system. The arrows on the chart will indicate the direction and quantity of flow, and this can help you identify any bottlenecks or areas of the system that need improvement.
Sankey charts are also a good way to understand how different parts of the system are interconnected. By coloring each component differently, you can highlight where the flow is coming from and going to.
Conclusion
Sankey charts are a powerful tool for understanding system flow, and can be very useful in project management, finance, and beyond. By following these steps and gathering the right data, you can create a Sankey chart that clearly shows the flow of information and resources within your system. With a deeper understanding of the overall flow, you can make more informed decisions about how to improve your system and achieve your goals.

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