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Mind Mapping Software Tools for BrainstormingOnline Mind Mapping during Initial BrainstormingMind mapping software is helpful during the brainstorming process to document everything if the person adding the keywords and comments is highly skilled and fast. If not, ideas can be lost while the person is typing. Mind Maps during the 'Step Back' & Organize StageDuring this stage the software is immensely helpful. It is easy to move subtopics around, to add pieces where ever needed, to decide to expand a particular topic and to get a 'big picture' look at what you have, so far.It is also easier for everyone to see all the results and start piggy backing on other ideas or see where combinations could be especially relevant. The sections or subtopics of an online mind map can easily be divided up and assigned to different people to work up further ideas. Online Mind Maps for Sharing Across Remote OfficesEmployees or participants in remote offices can participate because they can see the map developing in front of their eyes and can add items themselves if the software allows it or submit suggestions in real time.When done with the session, everyone can have their own copy and keep thinking and adding ideas. NovaMindNovaMind runs on both Windows and MAC systems. It was the only mind mapping software program I could find a few years ago when I first switched to MACs (We still have PCs and MACs in every office. You can ask me about that some time.) The graphics and templates are fantastic. It also comes in several versions so a beginner, someone with a smaller budget, or someone who wants to try it out at a simpler level can purchase the lowest price version. Someone who wants all the bells and whistles can choose the top of the line. They have an education discount for schools and teachers. Check it out at NovaMind.
MindManagerMindManager from Mindjet is optimized for the business world and sharing among employees and offices. It has graphics too, though more subtle and subdued than NovaMind. It is easy to get started with simple mind maps though, as with all the software, to get elaborate, large, and interesting results it takes reading the instructions, going through a tutorial, and plenty of practice.SmartDrawSmartDraw is more than a mind mapping software package. You can draw and diagram lots of things businesses need, especially for presentations. Here is a chart done with SmartDraw
Go to this link for a free trial if you would like to try it out. No obligation.
SmartDraw
doesn't work in the MAC environment unless you have one that also runs Windows. It does, however, work beautifully on a Windows PC.
iMindMapTony Buzan 's contribution to the list of software for mind mapping focuses on being able to use all the directions he feels are important. There is complete freedom and encouragement for using lots of color. The connecting lines curve and are totally flexible. Single keywords (or very short phrases) are necessary as they fit along the connecting lines. If you have read any of his books you will want to look at this mind mapping software before you make your final decision on what to buy (I haven't limited myself to only one, I have 4 different programs.)iMindMap by Tony Buzan
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