Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
Figure 12-3:
A useful interactive feature of Sankey diagrams is the
capability to highlight the subset of flow through a node—in this case,
visitors originating from Germany (1).
Another perfect use case for Sankey diagrams is supply chain management.
For example, a manufacturing business must effectively manage the flow
of supplies and associated costs to respond to demand and optimize the
bottom line. Delays result in lost sales, and oversupply results in stock that
does not move or that must be warehoused at a cost. Problems with a
supplier may carry on down the chain. For example, delays in the supply
of lithium from the Andes may delay battery production in Taiwan, which
may lead to delays in meeting demand for the latest smartphone, causing
lost sales because some would-be customers chose a more readily available
phone.
As an example,
Figure 12-4
shows a mock automotive supply chain where
raw materials are supplied for parts production, which, in turn, are supplied
for assembly. Vehicles are then supplied by the assembly plants to dealers.
The width of each link indicates the value of goods being supplied as a
measure of volume. The difference in width at each facility indicates value
added. Color indicates a problem with the rate of production. Red links
indicate a deficit of production against demand, and blue links indicate a
surplus, making it easy to trace problems back to their source.
