Mind Maps - new resource
 

Thought I would pass on a new web site resource I found that integrates mind mapping with a free mind map tool on-line. It's in beta now, but looks promising. I'm still testing it so the jury is out, but it may be worth a look for those who want to give it shot.

Mindomo - Web-based mind mapping software

I wrote an article on mind maps a while ago, so if you need some familiarization with the concept, you can check it out here: Mind Maps And Boosting Creativity

I read a book on mindmapping back in the early 1990s and found it beneficial then stopped using the technique.

Isn't it better to just hand draw the map?

It could be... thats why the jury is out on it since it will depend on how easy it is to use. If I find its too cumbersome to keep up, then hand drawing is the way to go.

The system I used relied on having lots of colored felt pens and one of those artist's sketch pads. I think I will start using MM again.

Thanks for the reminder.

I was just thinking about how helpful MMs are when it comes to planning out complex projects. They are like a vision board with the action elements added in. Since I believe that you need to take action to achieve your goals, I'm naturally a big proponent of MMs.

i think the interaction between hand, pen/pencil and paper is far more effective than mouse or even wicom pads (not that this program can do that)

its still the fastest, best way to express/record ideas and thoughts. I can't think of the post off hand but i remember reading something here of some study done in japan that showed handwriting stimulated creativity more than typing....

I have been listening to a lot of different speakers of late from IM people to sales trainers to experts in goal setting. I get something valuable from everyone but overtime I am overwhelmed with info. A MM would actually be a helpful tool in organizing all this info.

:)

After reading this thread I bought an 18 x 12 inch artist's pad and a pack of colored felt tip pens at Officemax.

:cool:

good podcast on mindmaps;
PodcastDirectory | Episode: TOTM 012 Mind Mapping Podcast

I got pretty great results with FreeMind (FreeMind - free mind mapping software)- quick and easy to use with keyboard and works on all platforms.

I've also read about MindMeister (MindMeister - think together) ... but never tried it though.

A big part of the creativity we experience in mind-mapping is triggered by the simple act of doodling. With software this benefit is eliminated entirely. I can see software being helpful in a corporate setting where there's a team involved but nothing comes close to a big sheet of paper (the bigger the better) and 4 or 5 different colored pens.

If you to go your local hardware store, you can grab some melamine or just regular white thinboard for cheap and cover your wall with it. Grab some dry erase markers, HUGE place for mindmapping/brainstorming/whatever.

I write big and kinda messy, so regular 8.5 by 11 sheets aren't big enough for me, so went and got some 11 by 17 (two letter-size sheets stuck together) sheets. They're big and they're awesome.

The 18 x 12 inch artist's pad for $6 is even easier.

Guess it's a matter of individual preference? What's effective for one may not be for another. So, sometimes, it may take a bit of trial and error to find the method that you may be most comfortable with.

I started out learning to draw by hand but using the software helps to organise things a bit. Didn't feel any significant loss of creativity but that's just my own thoughts.