MAPS / PRACTICAL GUIDE
Flow map: examples and when to use it
A flow map connects geographic origins and destinations. Line width represents the amount moving between locations; the map gives those connections spatial context.
When to use it
Use it for trade, migration or transfers between named places. Choose it when both movement and geographic position matter to the story.
When to choose another view
Use a Sankey diagram when stages matter more than geography. For a dense network, summarize the main routes and provide detailed values in a table.
How to read it
Identify the endpoints and consult the width legend. Distinguish direction from quantity. A drawn arc shows a connection; it does not establish the actual travel path taken.
Data format and example
Origin, destination and nonnegative value columns. Use resolvable place names or the coordinate fields supported by the mapping panel.
| Origin | Destination | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Indonesia | Singapore | 120 |
| Indonesia | Japan | 90 |
| Japan | United States | 160 |
| Singapore | Australia | 75 |
Make it in Datamon
- Prepare one row per origin–destination pair, with a consistent period and unit.
- Choose Flow map and connect the endpoint and value fields. Review endpoint matches.
- Inspect bidirectional routes and repeated pairs. Combine only records that refer to the same movement.
- Set line widths and framing so important routes remain readable. Describe direction and provide a source.
Common mistakes to check
- A missing endpoint should be resolved or omitted transparently, never placed at a made-up coordinate.
- Wide crossing lines can obscure smaller routes. Focus the view or group routes with an explicit rule.
- Net flows and gross flows are different measures. State which the map shows.