Mind mapping is a powerful tool.
It is used by thousands of people across the globe.
For those people that are unfamiliar with the tool, according to Wikipedia a mind map is:
‘A mind map is a diagram used to visually outline information. A mind map os often created around a single word or text, placed in the centre, to which associated ideas, words and concepts are added.’
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mind_map
According to to wikipedia, mind maps can be used to: generate, visualize, structure and classify ideas and as an aid to studying and organising information, solve problems, making decisions and writing.
I agree with all these claims.
But………..
The very strength of the tool i have found to be a weakness.
Because it starts with a central idea and builds through association you tend to get stuck in what De Bono might call a fixed pattern which is hard to escape from.
Our new Blitz tool by comparison has no starting idea in the middle of the map hence i believe it can help users to generate more original ideas.
The other difference is that Blitz has an emphasis on speed.
This is because of our insight that what stops many people from being creative is their own self-limiting critical voice.
If you give people no time then their creativity seems to flourish.
Both tools are good for enhancing, connecting and actioning ideas. For example;
Mindjet’s visual and dynamic mind mapping tool makes it easier to build on, and connect, ideas during brainstorming sessions (http://min.dj/VzdyNn)
In summary, both Ideas Blitz and Mindmapping are fun, engaging tools that can help individuals and groups to become more productive and creative.
Dr Ken Hudson