Mind Maps
Mind Maps - Home
I've been playing around with mind mapping for about a year now -
at first I was treating it similar to hierarchy charts, but the more
I've read and previewed other mind maps - the more I started to 'open up'
my use and gain additional benefit. Mind mapping is credited to
Tony Buzan - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tony_Buzan.
I've tried using a few different software mind mapping tools
and even Visio, but up until finding NovaMind found them to be more
prohibitive then helpful - and for the most part used the ole' paper/pen routine.
So far I've used it to describe components in a project, Project Management
Traditional (I know - should be Agile) life cycle and Metrics capture.
I've been reading how to apply to managing an actual project...but I'm not
there yet. Mind mapping for mapping ideas makes sense to me - and has helped
me dramatically - mind mapping for a structured process..?? I think it's using
a light bulb to hammer a nail in, I could see why a software company would want
to try it ($) - and it's potentially an interesting approach, but personally I
don't think it's a good fit. For coming up with project ideas, project gaps,
risks, etc. - YES - but managing work....
I highly recommend you try mind mapping - open up think freely - start with
paper and pen, don't limit yourself to the computer interface (especially in the
beginning) or be frustrated by the software out there.
Tony Buzan suggests using the following foundation structures for Mind Mapping:
- Start in the center with an image of the topic, using at least 3 colors.
- Use images, symbols, codes, and dimensions throughout your Mind Map.
- Select key words and print using upper or lower case letters.
- Each word/image must be alone and sitting on its own line.
- The lines must be connected, starting from the central image. The central lines are thicker, organic and flowing, becoming thinner as they radiate out from the center.
- Make the lines the same length as the word/image.
- Use colors – your own code – throughout the Mind Map.
- Develop your own personal style of Mind Mapping.
- Use emphasis and show associations in your Mind Map.
- Keep the Mind Map clear by using radial hierarchy, numerical order or outlines to embrace your branches.
Just as a note: I'm part of the Tony Buzan's iMindMap affiliate program (I get paid for people who sign up via this site)