Data Visualization
Sankey Diagram Generator
Visualize flow data with Sankey diagrams.
Method: standard formula Data Visualization
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Sankey Diagram Generator creates flow diagrams from source, target, and value rows. It helps explain how quantities move between categories, such as budget allocation, energy balance, funnel movement, material flow, or process losses.
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Input Pattern
Enter values in the left panel, keep units explicit, run the calculation, then copy or share the result. Invalid fields are highlighted immediately.
How to use this tool
Enter each flow as source, target, and numeric value.
Use consistent units across all rows.
Generate the diagram and review whether totals and labels make sense.
Adjust grouping or labels before using the chart in a report.
Formula or method
Each row becomes a directed flow from source to target with width proportional to value.
The diagram communicates magnitude and direction but does not verify whether the underlying accounting is complete.
Worked example
Showing budget movement
Budget, Product, 50000
Budget, Marketing, 30000
Marketing, Paid Search, 12000
Result: The Sankey chart shows how the original budget splits into departments and subchannels.
Check that inflows and outflows reconcile where conservation or accounting balance matters.
How to interpret the result
Read a Sankey diagram as a flow explanation; trust depends on clean labels, consistent units, and reconciled totals.
Wide links draw attention, so avoid mixing incompatible units.
Group small categories deliberately to reduce visual clutter.
Check whether flows should balance at intermediate nodes.
Common mistakes
Mixing percentages and raw values in the same diagram.
Using duplicate labels with slightly different spelling.
Presenting estimated flows without labeling them as estimates.
Review note and limitations
Method - directed flow visualization from source-target-value rows.
Does not audit data quality, reconcile accounting systems, or prove causality.
Very dense flow data may need aggregation before it is readable.
Visualization aid only. Verify source data and reconcile totals before using the chart for decisions.
FAQ
What data works best for Sankey diagrams?
Flows with clear sources, targets, and comparable values work best, especially when movement or allocation matters.
Can I use percentages?
Yes, if every row uses the same percentage basis and the labels make that clear.
Explore more versions
Tailored guides for specific audiences, regions, and scenarios.
Related tools and workflows
Sankey diagrams are part of the data-visualization workflow with bar, funnel, tree map, and chart generators.