Difference between pages "Medical profession's use of mind mapping" and "Sandbox"

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The medical profession makes extensive and deep use of information maps in its study programs.  
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I track discussions about mind mapping on Twitter and in blogs, and I often hear or read the question "Which is the best mindmapping software?" Anyone who gives you a single, immediate answer either knows you and your mindmapping activities very well, or is likely recommending the one that they've become familiar with themselves.
  
Six sources of medical study mind maps are named.  Most are extensive so we have made separate articles in WikIT.  Links to these articles are given below in context, but are summarized here:
 
* '''''[[Medical mind map sources - Allergy Cases]]'''''
 
* '''''[[Medical mind map sources - ICU mind maps]]'''''
 
* '''''[[Medical mind map sources - madhero88]]'''''
 
* '''''[[Medical mind map sources - Medic'All Maps]]'''''
 
* '''''[[Medical mind map sources - MedMaps]]'''''
 
* '''''[[Medical mind map sources - University of Dundee]]'''''
 
In making use of these maps, you should evaluate the sources and decide whether you can rely on their accuracy and completeness.  Be aware that WikIT does not endorse or validate the maps and our editors are not qualified to do so.
 
&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;<br>
 
= Study and learning =
 
== Allergy Cases ==
 
{|
 
| valign="top" width=350|
 
Allergy Cases is a website tightly focused on allergies and immunology.  The author of the maps on that site is V. Dimov, M.D., Fellow, Creighton University Division of Allergy & Immunology and the reviewer is S. Randhawa, M.D., Fellow, LSU (Shreveport) Department of Allergy & Immunology.  The maps and information there are endorsed by two relevant professional bodies: The  [http://www.aaaai.org/professionals/careers/allergy_cases.stm AAAAI] and the [http://www.acaai.org/Member/Fellows_in_Training/AllergyCases.htm ACAAI].
 
  
This article focuses only on the mind maps, but there is extensive reference information included on the allergycases.org web pages with the mind maps.
+
== What's "best"? ==
|valign="top" width=350|
+
What is "best" depends ''so much'' on how you use mind maps. Some people use them for study, some for planning projects, some for organizing information, some for sparking ideas and facilitating brainstorming sessions, some for planning the writing of a report or blog. Some mindmap alone, others mindmap in groups. Most of us probably do all of these from time to time, so we need a quiver full of arrows to choose from, some free, some not so free.
[[File:allergycases.png|right|thumb|320px|extract as sample only]]
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 +
== One package can't support all of those user profiles ...  ==
 +
… so here's my take:
 +
=== For study, learning and memorization ===
 +
... the colorful ones are said to help in retaining information: '''iMindmap''', '''Inspiration''', and for Mac '''MyThoughts''' and '''Mindnode''' are good candidates if you study alone; if you're part of a study group that likes mind maps, then software that supports collaboration may be a better fit: '''Bubbl.us''' is really easy to learn and use.  For students, there is also free software that lets you make simple but colorful maps. Look at '''''[[Free mind mapping (and related types) software#Mind maps|this list]]''''' for more than 25 packages, all free with some able to make very attractive maps.
 +
<center>
 +
{|
 +
| valign="middle"|[[Image:big_goalsetting.jpg|240px]]
 +
|
 +
| valign="middle" height=42|[[Image:Nitrogen-cycle.jpg|240px]]
 +
|
 +
| valign="middle" height=42|[[Image:MyThoughts.jpg|240px]]
 +
|-
 +
| align=center|[http://www.imindmap.com/ iMindmap]
 +
|
 +
| align=center|[http://www.inspiration.com/ Inspiration]
 +
|
 +
| align=center|[http://www.mythoughtsformac.com/ MyThoughts for Mac]
 +
|-
 +
| valign="middle" height=42|[[Image:MindNode2.jpg|240px]]
 +
|
 +
| valign="middle" height=42|[[Image:Bubbl.jpg|240px]]
 +
|
 +
| valign="middle" height=42|[[Image:Free.jpg|170px]]
 +
|-
 +
| align=center|[http://www.mindnode.com/ Mindnode]
 +
|
 +
| align=center|[http://bubbl.us/ Bubbl.us]
 +
|
 +
| align=center|[[Free mind mapping (and related types) software#Mind maps|The free software list]]
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
</center>
 +
<br>
 +
=== For planning projects and managing projects ===
 +
... '''MindManager''' works well for project management, especially with with add-ons like '''Gyronix ResultManager''' and '''Power Markers'''. This is not a low-cost solution, but for professional managers, the return is great.  If you have a lot of project information to organize, then use '''3D Topicscape Pro''' - it can import a '''MindManager''' map, so as a project grows, the 2D map can also provide a framework for the 3D map to hold collected information and research materials;
 +
<center>
 +
{|
 +
| valign="middle"|[[Image:MindManager.jpg|194px]]
 +
|
 +
| valign="middle"|[[Image:ResultsManager.jpg|180px]]
 +
|
 +
| valign="middle"|[[Image:Power-Markers.png|210px]]
 +
|
 +
| valign="middle"|[[Image:Topicscape-project-information-organizer.jpg|220px]]
 +
|-
 +
| align=center|[http://www.mindjet.com/ MindManager]
 +
|
 +
| align=center|[http://www.gyronix.com/ ResultsManager]
 +
|
 +
| align=center|[http://www.olympic-limited.co.uk/mindmanager-add-ins/power-markers/ Power Markers]
 +
|
 +
| align=center|[http://www.topicscape.com/ Topicscape]
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
</center>
 +
<br>
 +
=== When organizing information ===
 +
... for moderate amounts of information, '''MindManager''' or '''FreeMind'''; for larger amounts and especially to cope with information overload, try '''Topicscape Pro''';
 +
<center>
 +
{|
 +
| valign="middle"|[[Image:MindManager.jpg|194px]]
 +
|
 +
| valign="middle"|[[Image:FreeMind2.jpg|230px]]
 +
|
 +
| valign="middle"|[[Image:Topicscape-project-information-organizer.jpg|220px]]
 +
|-
 +
| align=center|[http://www.mindjet.com/ MindManager]
 +
|
 +
| align=center|[http://freemind.sourceforge.net/wiki/index.php/Main_Page FreeMind]
 +
|
 +
| align=center|[http://www.topicscape.com/ Topicscape]
 +
|-
 
|}
 
|}
'''Mind Maps by Disease'''
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</center>
{| style=background-color:#f4f8ff border=1
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<br>
| valign="top" width=350|
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=== To spark ideas and facilitate brainstorming sessions ===
* [http://allergycases.org/2006/02/mind-maps-introduction-to-allergic.html Introduction to Allergic Diseases]
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... '''MindManager''', '''FreeMind''', or any mindmapper than can be controlled easily from the keyboard, because you don't want to be constantly moving your hands between keyboard and mouse;
* [http://allergycases.org/2006/01/mind-maps-indoor-allergen-avoidance.html Indoor Allergen Avoidance]
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<center>
* [http://allergycases.org/2006/01/mind-maps-asthma.html Asthma]
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{|  
:* Pathogenesis of Inflammation in Asthma
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| valign="middle"|[[Image:MindManager.jpg|194px]]
:* Diagnosis of Asthma
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|
:* Treatment of asthma
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| valign="middle"|[[Image:FreeMind2.jpg|230px]]
* [http://allergycases.org/2006/01/mind-maps-immunomodulators-for-allergic.html Immunomodulators for allergic disorders]
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|-
|valign="top" width=350|
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| align=center|[http://www.mindjet.com/ MindManager]
* [http://allergycases.org/2008/02/mind-maps-other-pulmonary-disorders.html Other Pulmonary Disorders]
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|
* [http://allergycases.org/2006/01/mind-maps-allergic-rhinitis.html Allergic Rhinitis]
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| align=center|[http://freemind.sourceforge.net/wiki/index.php/Main_Page FreeMind]
* [http://allergycases.org/2006/01/mind-maps-allergic-conjunctivitis.html Allergic Conjunctivitis]
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|-
* [http://allergycases.org/2006/01/mind-maps-food-allergy.html Food Allergy]
 
* [http://allergycases.org/2006/01/mind-maps-urticaria.html Urticaria]
 
* [http://allergycases.org/2008/08/mind-maps-eosinophilic-esophagitis.html Eosinophilic Esophagitis]
 
* [http://allergycases.org/2006/01/mind-maps-anaphylaxis.html Anaphylaxis]
 
* [http://allergycases.org/2006/01/mind-maps-angioedema.html Angioedema]
 
* [http://allergycases.org/2006/01/mind-maps-drug-hypersensitivity.html Drug Hypersensitivity]
 
* [http://allergycases.org/2006/01/mind-maps-primary-immunodeficiency-pid.html Primary Immunodeficiency Disorders (PIDD)]
 
 
|}
 
|}
 +
</center>
 +
<br>
 +
=== When planning writing, reports or blogs ===
 +
... many writers swear by '''Scrivener''', though it's visual form is an outline not a mind map; For small reports I use '''MindManager''' to produce a skeleton contents list with some draft content in place, because it can export to Word files.  For large reports, where there's a lot of research and reference information needed to develop the report and support points made, I plan, gather and organize the information in '''Topicscape Pro''' which has a number of text output options.
 +
<center>
 +
<gallery caption="" widths="200px" heights="140px" perrow="6">
 +
Image:ScrivenerOutline2.jpg|[http://www.literatureandlatte.com/screens5.html Scrivener]
 +
Image:MindManager.jpg|[http://www.mindjet.com/ MindManager]
 +
Image:Topicscape-project-information-organizer.jpg|[http://www.topicscape.com/ Topicscape]
 +
</gallery>
 +
</center>
 +
<br>
 +
=== To design a web site or other publication ===
 +
... '''MindManager''' can export a web site, built from and following the structure of a mind map.  There's a simple [http://www.gandanet.com.hk/Information-mapping-software-functions/ example here] that was made this way.  '''WriteMaps''' is useful for website maps, as well, especially if you're designing a site in collaboration with others, because it's on line so doesn't need software to be downloaded and you can view the map in a hierarchical or an outline view.
 +
<center>
 +
<gallery caption="" widths="200px" heights="140px" perrow="6">
 +
Image:MindManager.jpg|[http://www.mindjet.com/ MindManager]
 +
Image:WriteMaps.jpg|[http://writemaps.com/ WriteMaps]
 +
</gallery>
 +
</center>
 +
<br>
 +
=== For organizing your personal tasks ===
 +
... if your life is simple and under control, '''FreeMind'''; If you have many projects on the go at once, then '''3D Topicscape Lite''';
 +
<center>
 +
<gallery caption="" widths="200px" heights="140px" perrow="6">
 +
Image:FreeMind2.jpg|[http://freemind.sourceforge.net/wiki/index.php/Main_Page FreeMind]
 +
Image:Topicscape-Lite.jpg|[http://www.topicscape.com/introduction-Topicscape-Pro-Lite.php Topicscape Lite]
 +
</gallery>
 +
</center>
 +
<br>
 +
=== If you often work in dispersed teams or groups ===
 +
... and the group is attuned to a mindmapping approach, then look at the many web based products, like '''Mind42''', '''MindMeister''', '''Mindomo''' or '''Wisemapping'''.  See which one fits your budget - the first two are free, but the others have more capabilities and are subscription-based.  Even the charged-for ones offer a limited-access free account.  If you collaborate in planning or designing, these browser-based mappers satisfy a real need.<br>The ones I just mentioned have a mind mapping orientation (they build round a central topic), but if you prefer a concept map and more freedom of node placement, then I recommend '''bubbl.us'''.  It is easy to use, and the '''beta version''' even allows adding linking phrases between the nodes.  This is necessary if you want to make real concept maps.  The regular version is a masterpiece of user friendliness.  In the beta version, several functions are handled differently, and personally, I find it less convenient and less visually attractive but if you need linking phrases, use it by all means, it is still good.
 +
<center>
 +
<gallery caption="" widths="120px" heights="90px" perrow="6">
 +
Image:Mind42a.jpg|[http://www.mind42.com/ Mind42]
 +
Image:Mindmeister.jpg|[http://www.mindmeister.com/  MindMeister] 
 +
Image:Mindomo2.jpg|[http://www.mindomo.com/ Mindomo]
 +
Image:Wisemapping.jpg|[http://www.wisemapping.com/ Wisemapping]
 +
Image:Bubbl.jpg|[http://bubbl.us/ Bubbl.us] ([https://bubbl.us/beta/ Beta])
 +
</gallery>
 +
</center>
 +
<br>
 +
=== For presentations with mind maps ===
 +
... many mind mapping applications can be used for presentations and provide a welcome relief from PowerPoint to some people.  A recent newcomer has been designed specifically for presentations, though: '''Prezi'''.  If you give presentations or want to put them on the Web, you should look at this '''''[http://prezi.com/mojdt36mrozf/mixing-mind-and-metaphor/ example]''''' to see how it could change what your audiences see and engage with.  You need to watch the example to understand the effect of the zooming, swinging and sliding round this map during the presentation.  The static image below cannot convey this.
 +
<center>
 +
<gallery caption="" widths="200px" heights="140px" perrow="6">
 +
Image:Prezi2.jpg|[http://prezi.com/ Prezi]
 +
Image:Prezi.jpg|[http://prezi.com/ Prezi]
 +
</gallery>
 +
</center>
 +
<br>
 +
=== For concept maps ===
 +
I mentioned these in relation to bubbl.us and collaborative browser-based apps, but the grand-daddy is '''Cmap'''.  I love this free tool and, though I make less than 10% of my 2D maps with it, when I do use it, it's because it is the best tool for rigorous thinking, reflection and verifying our understanding of a topic. The download link is not immediately visible, so here's help: [http://cmap.ihmc.us/download/ Download Cmap here].  '''Inspiration''' can also make concept maps.
 +
<center>
 +
<gallery caption="" widths="200px" heights="130px" perrow="6">
 +
Image:Management-reason-emotions.png‎|[http://cmap.ihmc.us/conceptmap.html Cmap Tools]
 +
Image:Nitrogen-cycle.jpg|[http://www.inspiration.com/ Inspiration]
 +
</gallery>
 +
</center>
 +
<br>
 +
== PC or Mac? ==
 +
Your computer will limit choice to some degree.  Mac users have less choice and though some software runs on Windows and Macs, updates to the Windows version will often be released before the Mac.  Here's a quick list of Mac mapping software: Free: FreeMind; Xmind; MindNode. Not free: Novamind; iMindmap; MindManager; Curio; Mythoughts; ConceptDraw.
 +
 +
== Two drivers for mapping ==
 +
I've been mapping for more than thirty years but soon after starting, I concluded that there are two motivations for using mind maps and similar types: Where the mindmapping <b>process</b> is what's really important - to help you think something through or get new ideas; and where the <b>resulting mindmap</b> is important as a finished product that will be shared with others in some way.  You will encounter both at one time or another, depending on why you're making the map, whether others will see it and the life of the project that it's part of.
 +
 +
=== ... because it makes you think ===
 +
In the first case, someone walking up to the map you produce may not be able to make much sense of it, but provided you can understand it, it's how you got there that will matter most. You're not building it to share. Then, ease of use of the software will be important so that it does not get in the way of the process of thinking. You need to look out for keyboard shortcuts, ease of moving round the map and searching, and ways of connecting maps. MindManager and FreeMind are fairly good for this and provide quite a lot of freedom in layout to suit your own immediate needs. You have to find out how to turn off auto-layout, though.
  
 +
=== ... because you have something to share ===
 +
In the second, your colleague's comprehension of the map will be important, so a tool that produces clear and businesslike results is needed. Whether this means it's appropriate to stick to auto-layout and not too much color will depend on the business culture. Publishers of the on-line web application [http://www.comapping.com/ Comapping] claim to have researched their left-to-right mindmapping style and found this easier to introduce to mindmap novices, though you may soon want to move on to maps that allow more flexibility. Alternatively, a product that can turn a mindmap into an outline may be useful in winning over people who are not 'visual thinkers'.  MindManager and Inspiration can both do this.
  
'''Immunology Mind Maps'''
+
Personally I use MindManager 8, 3D Topicscape Pro (naturally as much of it is my design), and sometimes FreeMind. I played with [http://www.text2mindmap.com/ text2mindmap] for a while, because it takes a different approach: Key in a text outline and it produces a mindmap from it. It's amusing, but it does confine the user to a rigid hierarchy and that's something I find very limiting.
{| style=background-color:#f4f8ff border=1
 
| valign="top" width=350|
 
* [http://allergycases.org/2006/01/mind-maps-innate-immune-system.html Innate Immune System]
 
* [http://allergycases.org/2006/01/mind-maps-adaptive-humoral-immunity-b.html Adaptive Humoral Immunity: B-cells and Immunoglobulins]
 
|valign="top" width=350|
 
* [http://allergycases.org/2006/01/mind-maps-mast-cells-and-basophils.html Mast Cells and Basophils]
 
* [http://allergycases.org/2006/01/mind-maps-eosinophils.html Eosinophils]
 
* [http://allergycases.org/2006/01/mind-maps-t-lymphocytes.html T Lymphocytes]
 
|}
 
  
<br>&nbsp;
+
== Mobile mapping ==
== ICU Mind Maps ==
 
{|
 
| valign="top" width=350|
 
One of the most significant sources of medical mind maps is [http://lifeinthefastlane.com/about/ Life in the Fast Lane], a website edited by a team of Australian physicians, with 353 detailed PDF files for download.
 
Given the size of the list, a catalogue with links is given in '''''[[Medical mind map sources - ICU mind maps|a separate WikIT article on ICU Mind Maps]]'''''.  They cover, in extraordinary detail, the following extensive range of topics in medical study:
 
|valign="top" width=350|
 
[[File:Medmap.jpg|right|thumb|320px|extract as sample only]]
 
|}
 
{| style=background-color:#f4f8ff border=1
 
| valign="top" width=350|
 
* [[Medical mind map sources - ICU mind maps#Cardiovascular disease|Cardiovascular disease]]
 
* [[Medical mind map sources - ICU mind maps#Dermatology|Dermatology]]
 
* [[Medical mind map sources - ICU mind maps#Equipment and Procedures|Equipment and Procedures]]
 
:* Respiratory Equipment and Procedures
 
:* Other Equipment and Procedures
 
* [[Medical mind map sources - ICU mind maps#Gastrointestinal|Gastrointestinal]]
 
* [[Medical mind map sources - ICU mind maps#Haematology, Oncology and Immunology|Haematology, Oncology and Immunology]]
 
* [[Medical mind map sources - ICU mind maps#Infectious Diseases and Microbiology|Infectious Diseases and Microbiology]]
 
:* Antimicrobials
 
:* Infectious Diseases
 
:* Specific micro-organisms
 
* [[Medical mind map sources - ICU mind maps#Investigations and Monitoring|Investigations and Monitoring]]
 
:* Imaging
 
| valign="top" width=350|
 
:* Laboratory tests
 
:* Monitoring and Other Investigations
 
* [[Medical mind map sources - ICU mind maps#Metabolism and Endocrinology|Metabolism and Endocrinology]]
 
* [[Medical mind map sources - ICU mind maps#Neurology and Psychiatry|Neurology and Psychiatry]]
 
* [[Medical mind map sources - ICU mind maps#Nutrition|Nutrition]]
 
* [[Medical mind map sources - ICU mind maps#Obstetrics and Gynaecology|Obstetrics and Gynaecology]]
 
* [[Medical mind map sources - ICU mind maps#Respiratory|Respiratory]]
 
:* (Also see the Respiratory section of Equipment and Procedures)
 
* [[Medical mind map sources - ICU mind maps#Renal|Renal]]
 
* [[Medical mind map sources - ICU mind maps#Statistics and Evidence|Statistics and Evidence]]
 
* [[Medical mind map sources - ICU mind maps#Toxicology|Toxicology]]
 
* [[Medical mind map sources - ICU mind maps#|Trauma]]
 
|}
 
  
== Madhero88 ==
+
Finally, I have to mention mind mapping on a mobile phone. Working on these tiny screens is moderately painful (once you've got over the 'Wow!' factor), but there can be times when stuck on a train, for example, you might want to whip out your smartphone and start mapping.  Here, then, is a [http://www.informationtamers.com/WikIT/index.php?title=Mind_mapping_on_the_run list of applications] that you can consider for such moments. Of those I've tried, iMindMap is the standout in this tiny format.
{|
 
| valign="top" width=350|
 
This collection of medical mind maps are sourced from the Wikipedia user page of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/User:Madhero88 Madhero88] and are here acknowledged as the work of Madhero88 (Maen K A), who has released them under the [http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en Creative commons Attribution 3.0 Unported] license.
 
  
Thumbnail and full sized images are here: '''''[[Medical mind map sources - madhero88]]'''''
+
I haven't tried on mapping an iPad yet, but I've seen some good comments from those who have.
| valign="top" width=350|
 
[[File:Branches of Brachial plexus.jpg|right|thumb|320px|Branches of Brachial plexus]]
 
|}<br style="clear: both" />
 
Topics covered are these:
 
{| style=background-color:#f4f8ff border=1
 
| valign="top" width=350|
 
* Alkaline phosphatase
 
* Aspirin
 
* Aspirin - Adverse effects and drug interactions
 
* Axilla
 
* Beta blockers
 
* Brachial plexus
 
* Carpal tunnel and carpal tunnel syndrome
 
* Excess lead
 
* Growth hormone physiology, summary
 
* Hyperkalemia
 
* Inguinal region and Inguinal Hernia
 
| valign="top" width=350|
 
* Lower limb muscle innervation
 
* Lung cancer types
 
* Metabolic syndrome mind map
 
* Neuromuscular depolarizing agents
 
* Neuromuscular blockers nondepolarizing agents
 
* Patient history taking
 
* Shoulder joint
 
* Skull fracture
 
* Smoking health effects
 
* Upper arm fractures
 
* Upper limb muscle innervation
 
|}
 
  
 +
== What have I missed out? ==
  
== Medic'All Maps ==
+
Many excellent software packages!  A couple of standouts that I haven't mentioned and really ought to are '''[http://www.xmind.net Xmind]''' and '''[http://www.novamind.com/ NovaMind]'''.
{|
 
| valign="top" width=350|
 
"Cartes en médecine" is a site in French with maps covering <br>topics in the list below. These are covered in more detail in a <br>'''''[[Medical mind map sources - Medic'All Maps|separate WikIT article]]'''''
 
{| style=background-color:#f4f8ff border=1
 
| valign="top" width=350|
 
* Alcoholic Liver Disease (ALD)
 
* Cancer (Cancérologie)
 
* Hepato-Gastroenterology (Hépato-gastro-entérologie)
 
* Infectious diseases (Infectiologie)
 
* General medicine (Médecine générale)
 
* Medico-social (Médico-social)
 
* Nutrition
 
* Ear, Nose and Throat (Oto-rhino-laryngologie)
 
* Pulmonology (Pneumologie)
 
|}
 
| valign="top" width=350|
 
[[File:Medic'All Maps.jpg|right|thumb|320px|extract as sample only]]
 
|}<br style="clear: both" />
 
  
== Medmaps ==
+
Xmind has a very capable and professional-looking free version suitable for business mapping, and a Pro option - both give you access to an online facilityI do use this occasionally, and would use it more if I did not already have a MindManager license.
{|
 
| valign="top" width=350|
 
MedMaps UK is a site offering mind maps on medical topics to medical professionals'''''Quote''''' "The purpose of this website is to create a collection of free medical mindmaps in order to facilitate learning of complex topics."
 
  
There is a '''''[[Medical mind map sources - MedMaps|separate article on Medmaps]]'''''.
+
NovaMind is widely noted for producing very attractive maps, but with what I already have, I can't justify to myself the extra cost.  If you are in the market for a mind mapping software license and haven't committed yet, you should take a look at Novamind.
| valign="top" width=350|
 
[[File:MedMaps.jpg|right|thumb|320px|extract as sample only]]
 
|}<br style="clear: both" />
 
  
== University of Dundee ==
+
== More about mind mapping ==
{|
 
| valign="top" width=350|
 
Mind maps from the '''''[[Medical mind map sources - University of Dundee|University of Dundee]]''''', UK, can be downloaded and saved and a viewer for the Thoughtograph software can be accessed from a link at the same site.  This allows the mind maps to be viewed and you can interact with them - opening and closing branches and exploring different areas, though not making changes.
 
<br>&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;<br>
 
Lecture mind maps covering the following topics can be found at the site:
 
| valign="top" width=350|
 
[[File:DundeeMedicalMapsSample.png|right|thumb|320px|extract as sample only]]
 
|}
 
==== Year 1 ====
 
{| style=background-color:#f4f8ff border=1
 
| valign="top" width=350|
 
* Cardiovascular Lectures
 
* Genito Urinary Renal Lectures
 
* Introduction to Systems of the Body Lectures&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
 
| valign="top" width=350|
 
* Musculoskeletal - Action Potentials
 
* Musculoskeletal Lectures
 
* Respiration Lectures
 
|}
 
==== Year 2 ====
 
{| style=background-color:#f4f8ff border=1
 
| valign="top" width=350|
 
* Cardiovascular Lectures
 
* Haematology Lectures
 
* Respiratory Lectures
 
|}
 
==== Year 3 ====
 
{| style=background-color:#f4f8ff border=1
 
| valign="top" width=350|
 
* Ageing and Health Lectures
 
* Dermatology Lectures
 
* Life Cycle and Reproduction Lectures&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
 
* Musculoskeletal Lectures
 
* Ophthalmology Lectures
 
* Renal and Urology Lectures
 
| valign="top" width=350|
 
* Dermatology - Medico-Legal Implications
 
* Musculoskeletal - Concepts in Arthritis
 
* Ophthalmology - The Red Eye
 
* Renal and Urology - Urinary Incontinence
 
* Reproduction Lectures
 
|}
 
==== Clinical textbook maps ====
 
'''''[[Medical mind map sources - University of Dundee#Clinical textbook maps|220 mind maps]]''''' derived from clinical textbooks are provided for the following topics:
 
{| style=background-color:#f4f8ff border=1
 
| valign="top" width=350|
 
* Clinical medicine
 
* Ear, Nose and Throat and Head and Neck Surgery
 
* Head and Neck Neoplasia
 
* Cardiology
 
* Respiratory System
 
* Central Nervous System
 
* Blood Disease
 
* Kidney
 
| valign="top" width=350|
 
* Gastrointestinal Tract
 
* Metabolic Disorders
 
* Endocrine
 
* Connective tissues and joints
 
* Infectious diseases
 
* Tropical
 
* Systemic disease and the mouth
 
|}
 
  
= Continuing Professional Development =
+
I'm on Twitter as @roygrubb where I frequently answer questions about information mapping and software.  I hope I'll see you there!  ('''[http://twitter.com/roygrubb Follow me on Twitter]'''.)
=== Books of medical maps ===
 
  
= Case management =
+
And if you're here at WikIT, the mind mapping wiki, for the first time, you may not know that it is a vast store of free information about all types of information mapping. Why not '''[[Special:AllPages|explore now]]'''?
  
= Practise reference information =
 
The [http://www.curehunter.com/public/dictionary.do Visual Medical Dictionary] allows you to enter a disease, drug or therapy name and start exploring relationships.  It yields a result in a form close to a mind map.
 
  
= Organizing large medical reference sources =
+
'''<big>Roy</big>'''
  
= Navigating to appropriate sources =
 
  
  
[[Category:Occupational use of mind maps]][[Category:Medical]]
+
<small>Roy Grubb is a management consultant who has practised internationally in the USA, Asia and Europe for more than 30 years. He has been using a variety of types of mind maps for project management and to organize information for almost as long. One of his consultancy's assignments is the project management for the development of the family of software called Topicscape. He is at present based in Hong Kong.</small>

Revision as of 11:48, 6 June 2010

I track discussions about mind mapping on Twitter and in blogs, and I often hear or read the question “Which is the best mindmapping software?” Anyone who gives you a single, immediate answer either knows you and your mindmapping activities very well, or is likely recommending the one that they’ve become familiar with themselves.


What’s “best”?[edit]

What is “best” depends so much on how you use mind maps. Some people use them for study, some for planning projects, some for organizing information, some for sparking ideas and facilitating brainstorming sessions, some for planning the writing of a report or blog. Some mindmap alone, others mindmap in groups. Most of us probably do all of these from time to time, so we need a quiver full of arrows to choose from, some free, some not so free.

One package can’t support all of those user profiles …[edit]

… so here’s my take:

For study, learning and memorization[edit]

… the colorful ones are said to help in retaining information: iMindmap, Inspiration, and for Mac MyThoughts and Mindnode are good candidates if you study alone; if you’re part of a study group that likes mind maps, then software that supports collaboration may be a better fit: Bubbl.us is really easy to learn and use. For students, there is also free software that lets you make simple but colorful maps. Look at this list for more than 25 packages, all free with some able to make very attractive maps.

Big goalsetting.jpg Nitrogen-cycle.jpg MyThoughts.jpg
iMindmap Inspiration MyThoughts for Mac
MindNode2.jpg Bubbl.jpg Free.jpg
Mindnode Bubbl.us The free software list


For planning projects and managing projects[edit]

MindManager works well for project management, especially with with add-ons like Gyronix ResultManager and Power Markers. This is not a low-cost solution, but for professional managers, the return is great. If you have a lot of project information to organize, then use 3D Topicscape Pro – it can import a MindManager map, so as a project grows, the 2D map can also provide a framework for the 3D map to hold collected information and research materials;

MindManager.jpg ResultsManager.jpg Power-Markers.png Topicscape-project-information-organizer.jpg
MindManager ResultsManager Power Markers Topicscape


When organizing information[edit]

… for moderate amounts of information, MindManager or FreeMind; for larger amounts and especially to cope with information overload, try Topicscape Pro;

MindManager.jpg FreeMind2.jpg Topicscape-project-information-organizer.jpg
MindManager FreeMind Topicscape


To spark ideas and facilitate brainstorming sessions[edit]

MindManager, FreeMind, or any mindmapper than can be controlled easily from the keyboard, because you don’t want to be constantly moving your hands between keyboard and mouse;

MindManager.jpg FreeMind2.jpg
MindManager FreeMind


When planning writing, reports or blogs[edit]

… many writers swear by Scrivener, though it’s visual form is an outline not a mind map; For small reports I use MindManager to produce a skeleton contents list with some draft content in place, because it can export to Word files. For large reports, where there’s a lot of research and reference information needed to develop the report and support points made, I plan, gather and organize the information in Topicscape Pro which has a number of text output options.


To design a web site or other publication[edit]

MindManager can export a web site, built from and following the structure of a mind map. There’s a simple example here that was made this way. WriteMaps is useful for website maps, as well, especially if you’re designing a site in collaboration with others, because it’s on line so doesn’t need software to be downloaded and you can view the map in a hierarchical or an outline view.


For organizing your personal tasks[edit]

… if your life is simple and under control, FreeMind; If you have many projects on the go at once, then 3D Topicscape Lite;


If you often work in dispersed teams or groups[edit]

… and the group is attuned to a mindmapping approach, then look at the many web based products, like Mind42, MindMeister, Mindomo or Wisemapping. See which one fits your budget – the first two are free, but the others have more capabilities and are subscription-based. Even the charged-for ones offer a limited-access free account. If you collaborate in planning or designing, these browser-based mappers satisfy a real need.
The ones I just mentioned have a mind mapping orientation (they build round a central topic), but if you prefer a concept map and more freedom of node placement, then I recommend bubbl.us. It is easy to use, and the beta version even allows adding linking phrases between the nodes. This is necessary if you want to make real concept maps. The regular version is a masterpiece of user friendliness. In the beta version, several functions are handled differently, and personally, I find it less convenient and less visually attractive but if you need linking phrases, use it by all means, it is still good.


For presentations with mind maps[edit]

… many mind mapping applications can be used for presentations and provide a welcome relief from PowerPoint to some people. A recent newcomer has been designed specifically for presentations, though: Prezi. If you give presentations or want to put them on the Web, you should look at this example to see how it could change what your audiences see and engage with. You need to watch the example to understand the effect of the zooming, swinging and sliding round this map during the presentation. The static image below cannot convey this.


For concept maps[edit]

I mentioned these in relation to bubbl.us and collaborative browser-based apps, but the grand-daddy is Cmap. I love this free tool and, though I make less than 10% of my 2D maps with it, when I do use it, it’s because it is the best tool for rigorous thinking, reflection and verifying our understanding of a topic. The download link is not immediately visible, so here’s help: Download Cmap here. Inspiration can also make concept maps.


PC or Mac?[edit]

Your computer will limit choice to some degree. Mac users have less choice and though some software runs on Windows and Macs, updates to the Windows version will often be released before the Mac. Here’s a quick list of Mac mapping software: Free: FreeMind; Xmind; MindNode. Not free: Novamind; iMindmap; MindManager; Curio; Mythoughts; ConceptDraw.

Two drivers for mapping[edit]

I’ve been mapping for more than thirty years but soon after starting, I concluded that there are two motivations for using mind maps and similar types: Where the mindmapping process is what’s really important – to help you think something through or get new ideas; and where the resulting mindmap is important as a finished product that will be shared with others in some way. You will encounter both at one time or another, depending on why you’re making the map, whether others will see it and the life of the project that it’s part of.

… because it makes you think[edit]

In the first case, someone walking up to the map you produce may not be able to make much sense of it, but provided you can understand it, it’s how you got there that will matter most. You’re not building it to share. Then, ease of use of the software will be important so that it does not get in the way of the process of thinking. You need to look out for keyboard shortcuts, ease of moving round the map and searching, and ways of connecting maps. MindManager and FreeMind are fairly good for this and provide quite a lot of freedom in layout to suit your own immediate needs. You have to find out how to turn off auto-layout, though.

… because you have something to share[edit]

In the second, your colleague’s comprehension of the map will be important, so a tool that produces clear and businesslike results is needed. Whether this means it’s appropriate to stick to auto-layout and not too much color will depend on the business culture. Publishers of the on-line web application Comapping claim to have researched their left-to-right mindmapping style and found this easier to introduce to mindmap novices, though you may soon want to move on to maps that allow more flexibility. Alternatively, a product that can turn a mindmap into an outline may be useful in winning over people who are not ‘visual thinkers’. MindManager and Inspiration can both do this.

Personally I use MindManager 8, 3D Topicscape Pro (naturally as much of it is my design), and sometimes FreeMind. I played with text2mindmap for a while, because it takes a different approach: Key in a text outline and it produces a mindmap from it. It’s amusing, but it does confine the user to a rigid hierarchy and that’s something I find very limiting.

Mobile mapping[edit]

Finally, I have to mention mind mapping on a mobile phone. Working on these tiny screens is moderately painful (once you’ve got over the ‘Wow!’ factor), but there can be times when stuck on a train, for example, you might want to whip out your smartphone and start mapping. Here, then, is a list of applications that you can consider for such moments. Of those I’ve tried, iMindMap is the standout in this tiny format.

I haven’t tried on mapping an iPad yet, but I’ve seen some good comments from those who have.

What have I missed out?[edit]

Many excellent software packages! A couple of standouts that I haven’t mentioned and really ought to are Xmind and NovaMind.

Xmind has a very capable and professional-looking free version suitable for business mapping, and a Pro option – both give you access to an online facility. I do use this occasionally, and would use it more if I did not already have a MindManager license.

NovaMind is widely noted for producing very attractive maps, but with what I already have, I can’t justify to myself the extra cost. If you are in the market for a mind mapping software license and haven’t committed yet, you should take a look at Novamind.

More about mind mapping[edit]

I’m on Twitter as @roygrubb where I frequently answer questions about information mapping and software. I hope I’ll see you there! (Follow me on Twitter.)

And if you’re here at WikIT, the mind mapping wiki, for the first time, you may not know that it is a vast store of free information about all types of information mapping. Why not explore now?


Roy


Roy Grubb is a management consultant who has practised internationally in the USA, Asia and Europe for more than 30 years. He has been using a variety of types of mind maps for project management and to organize information for almost as long. One of his consultancy’s assignments is the project management for the development of the family of software called Topicscape. He is at present based in Hong Kong.