MIND MAPPING-AN INNOVATION ENABLER
A Mind Map is a way of brainstorming thoughts naturally without worrying about layout
and order. It allows us to graphically structure our ideas which helps in analysis and
recall.
A Mind Map is a diagrammatic representation of tasks, concepts, or items which are
linked to each other and are arranged around a central concept or subject using a
non-linear graphical layout that allows the user to build a natural framework around a
central concept. It can turn a long list of repetitive information into a colorful, meaning
memorable and highly organized diagram that works in line with your brain’s natural way
of doing things.
The Five Essential Characteristics of Mind Mapping:
1. The main idea is focused on the central image or text.
2. The important topics radiates from the central image or text as ‘branches’
3. The branches contain a key image or word drawn or printed on its related line.
4. Topics with less importance can be represented as ‘twigs’ of the significant branch.
5. The branches will form a connected nodal structure.
How to Draw a Mind Map
Drawing a mind map is as simple as 1-2-3:
● Start writing or drawing the idea which you plan to develop from the middle of a
blank page. I would suggest that you use the page in landscape orientation.
● Develop the associated subtopics around the central/main topic, connecting
each of them to the main topic
● Repeat the same process for the subtopics by generating lower-level subtopics
and then connect each of those to the related subtopic.
Some more recommendations:
● Use colors, drawings and symbols as much as you can to make it attractive.
● Keep the topics labels as simplified as possible.
● Vary text size, color and alignment.
Why Should I Mind Map?
There are lots of reasons why mind mapping is used by millions of creatives,
professionals and students all over the world.
● Mind Maps improves memory and recall.
● Mind maps improve understanding.
● Mind maps enhance productivity.
● Mind maps foster creativity.
● Mind maps structure information.
Mind Mapping is perfect for:
● Brainstorming and visualizing concepts
● Presenting and communicating ideas
● Graphic organizers and electronic notebooks
● Running meetings more effectively
● Outlining reports and documents
● Simplifying task and project management
● Writing essays
Benefits when Creating Mind Maps with Software:
● It is faster to brainstorm and enter information.
● Re-arranging branches and formatting is much easier.
● You do not run out of “space”, as you tend to do with larger mind maps on paper.
● You can take unlimited notes and attach files.
● Some mind mapping software tools enable us to export our mind map to Word,
PowerPoint, Excel, Project etc. without re-entering information.
Free Mind Mapping Software:
There are many free mind mapping tools, such as Edraw Mindmaster , Mindomo ,
FreeMind etc which are good options. I personally use FreeMind and I found it very
effective. There are also subscription-based online mind mapping tools which helps
users to store mind maps on the internet for sharing and collaboration.
Storing mind maps containing confidential or sensitive information online could cause
some security issues that conflict with company policies, educational regulations for
storing student data etc .
Commercial Mind Mapping Software:
If you are planning to use mind mapping in a corporate environment, as a productivity
tool, it is important to consider what the program allows you to do with the mind map
once you’ve created it. You should always test the MS Office integration properly before
selecting your tool. Professional desktop applications typically integrate with MS Office
which enables you to continue working with your ideas in other documents without
re-entering data. You should always test the MS Office integration properly before
selecting your tool.
Here is a useful checklist when evaluating mind mapping software:
● Ease of use
● Look and feel
● Variety of templates available
● Number of different layouts
● Integration with MS Office Sharing of files with attachments
● Handling of task information and project management rules
● Collaboration options including shared workspace and multi user editing
CONCLUSION:
Mind Mapping is absolutely fantastic and a great tool .Mind maps can also be drawn by
hand, either as “notes” during a lecture, meeting or planning session, for example, or as
higher quality pictures when more time is available. It is a powerful and unparalleled way
to facilitate innovative thinking. Evolve the way you think – you never know where your
next great idea will take you. Thus It’s an effective technique to brainstorm your ideas
and plans.