Difference between revisions of "Which is the best mindmapping software?"

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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.
 
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"? ==
 +
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 to spark ideas and facilitate brainstorming sessions, some while planning the writing of a report or blog post. 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.  Here you will find recommendations, some free and some not so free.
  
  
== What's "best"? ==
+
Myself, I mostly use Xmind, 3D Topicscape Pro (naturally, as much of it is my design), MindManager, MindMeister and CMAP depending on what I'm doing.  I have tried many, many others. 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 strict tree hierarchy and that's something I find very limiting.  The map below shows the advantage of being able to go beyond a tree structure.
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.
 
  
Click the images below to see a larger version of the image. To go to the site of the software mentioned, click the caption below its image.
+
== Two drivers for mapping ==
 +
I've been mapping for more than thirty years but soon after starting, I saw that there are two motivations for using mind maps (and similar visual models): When ''the process of making it'' is what's important; or when ''the map itself'' is what you need.
 +
[[Image:Motivations-for-mapping.png|thumb|600px|center|(wondering which software made this map? [http://www.mind-mapping.org/blog/2012/07/news-about-cayra/ Click here]) ]]
 +
==== Either because it makes you think ====
 +
The process of building the map can help you think something through, get new ideas or learn.  The map map you make during this process will probably be filed away and forgotten when you've finished.
  
  
'''If you're looking for detailed reviews though, you can pick up at no cost this ''[http://www.topicscape.com/blog/newsletter-subscription/ eBook about free mind mapping and similar software]'' with its very thorough analysis and examples showing the capabilities of each package. You may want to grab your copy now.''' But if you want to know the best paid-for mappers, read-on.
+
Someone seeing the map you produce may not be able to make much sense of it, but it's how you got there that matters. 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, Xmind and Freeplane are good for this and provide quite a lot of freedom in layout to suit your own immediate needs. You may want to turn off auto-layout, though.
 +
==== Or because you have something to share ====
 +
Here, your colleagues' 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 one 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.
  
 
== One package can't support all user profiles ...  ==
 
== One package can't support all user profiles ...  ==
… so here's my take:
+
. . . or even all occasions, so I've split this into a few articles. Choose the one(s) that fit your needs, or browse them allYou'll find a link to the next article at the foot of each:
=== For study, learning and memorization ===
+
==== Where the '''PROCESS''' is what matters to you: ====
... 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''' (an online tool that runs in your browser) is really easy to learn and use.  For students, there is also free software that lets you make simple but colorful mapsLook 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]]
+
|[[Choosing mind mapping software to help with learning|For study, learning and<br/>memorization]]
 
|
 
|
| valign="middle" height=42|[[Image:Nitrogen-cycle.jpg|240px]]
+
| |[[Image:big_goalsetting.jpg|50px]]
 
|
 
|
| valign="middle" height=42|[[Image:MyThoughts.jpg|240px]]
+
| |[[Image:Nitrogen-cycle.jpg|50px]]
|-
 
| align=center|[http://www.imindmap.com/ iMindmap]
 
 
|
 
|
| align=center|[http://www.inspiration.com/ Inspiration]
+
| |[[Image:MyThoughts.jpg|50px]]
 
|
 
|
| align=center|[http://www.mythoughtsformac.com/ MyThoughts for Mac]
+
| |[[Image:MindNode2.jpg|50px]]
|-
 
| valign="middle" height=42|[[Image:MindNode2.jpg|240px]]
 
 
|
 
|
| valign="middle" height=42|[[Image:Bubbl.jpg|240px]]
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| |[[Image:Bubbl.jpg|50px]]
 
|
 
|
| valign="middle" height=42|[[Image:Free.jpg|170px]]
+
| |[[Image:Free.jpg|40px]]
|-
+
|-  
| align=center|[http://www.mindnode.com/ Mindnode]
+
|[[Choosing mind mapping software for planning and managing projects|For planning projects<br/>and managing projects]]
 
|
 
|
| align=center|[http://bubbl.us/ Bubbl.us]
+
| |[[Image:MindManager.jpg|50px]]
 
|
 
|
| align=center|[[Free mind mapping (and related types) software#Mind maps|The free mapping software list]]
+
| |[[Image:Xmind2.png|50px]]
|-
 
|}
 
</center>
 
<br>
 
 
 
=== For planning projects and managing projects ===
 
... '''[http://www.mind-mapping.org/VicsPicks/2010/08/mindmanager/ MindManager]''' works well for project management and has planning-related functions like the ability to specify task dependencies and produce Gantt charts. This is not a low-cost solution, but for professional managers, the return is great.  A lower-cost alternative is '''[http://www.mind-mapping.org/VicsPicks/2010/08/xmind/ Xmind Pro]''' - it doesn't have all the bells and whistles that MindManager boasts, but is still a very capable tool.  I have and use both.  Xmind has a very capable and professional-looking free version suitable for business mapping, both this and the give you access to an online facility.
 
 
 
Here's a link to several more [http://www.mind-mapping.org/VicsPicks/category/all-software/non-hierarchical/gantt-chart/ mind mapping tools that can produce Gantt charts] and are therefore useful to project managers. 
 
If you have a lot of project information to organize, then use '''[http://www.mind-mapping.org/VicsPicks/2010/08/3d-topicscape/ 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:Xmind2.png|224px]]
+
| |[[Image:Topicscape-project-information-organizer.jpg|50px]]
 
|
 
|
| valign="middle"|[[Image:Topicscape-project-information-organizer.jpg|220px]]
+
| |[[Image:Gantt.png|50px]]
 
|-
 
|-
| align=center|[http://www.mindjet.com/ MindManager]
+
|[[Choosing mind mapping software to spark ideas and facilitate brainstorming|To spark ideas and<br/>facilitate brainstorming]]
 
|
 
|
| align=center|[http://www.xmind.net/ Xmind Pro]
+
| |[[Image:MindManager.jpg|50px]]
 
|
 
|
| align=center|[http://www.topicscape.com/ Topicscape Pro]
+
| |[[Image:MindMup2.png|50px]]
|-
 
|}
 
</center>
 
<br>
 
 
 
=== When organizing information ===
 
... for moderate amounts of information, '''MindManager''', or '''Freeplane''';  (Freeplane is an offshoot of FreeMind and its  development is generally faster and the interface is a little more user-friendly).
 
 
 
... for larger bodies of information and especially to cope with information overload, try '''Topicscape Pro'''. This has a 3D landscape you can fly through, rotate and zoom into.
 
 
 
<center>
 
{|
 
| valign="middle"|[[Image:MindManager.jpg|194px]]
 
 
|
 
|
| valign="middle"|[[Image:Freeplane2.png|180px]]
+
| |[[Image:Coggle.png|50px]]
 
|
 
|
| valign="middle"|[[Image:Topicscape-project-information-organizer.jpg|220px]]
+
| |[[Image:Xmind.png|50px]]
|-
+
|-  
| align=center|[http://www.mindjet.com/ MindManager]
+
|[[Choosing mind mapping software to help plan writing|When planning writing,<br/>reports or blogs]]
|
 
| align=center|[http://freeplane.sourceforge.net/wiki/index.php/Main_Page Freeplane]
 
|
 
| align=center|[http://www.topicscape.com/ Topicscape]
 
|-
 
|}
 
</center>
 
<br>
 
 
 
=== To spark ideas and facilitate brainstorming sessions ===
 
... '''MindManager''', '''Freeplane''', '''MindMup''' 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;
 
<center>
 
{|
 
| valign="middle"|[[Image:MindManager.jpg|194px]]
 
 
|
 
|
| valign="middle"|[[Image:MindMup2.png|194px]]
+
| |[[Image:ScrivenerOutline2.jpg|50px]]
 
|
 
|
| valign="middle"|[[Image:Freeplane2.png|178px]]
+
| |[[Image:MindManager.jpg|50px]]
 
|
 
|
| valign="middle"|[[Image:Xmind.png|230px]]
+
| |[[Image:Topicscape-project-information-organizer.jpg|50px]]
 
|-
 
|-
| align=center|[http://www.mindjet.com/ MindManager]
+
|[[Choosing software for concept maps|For concept maps]] (not mind<br/>maps, but useful)
|
 
| align=center|[http://www.minmup.com/ MindMup]
 
 
|
 
|
| align=center|[http://freeplane.sourceforge.net/wiki/index.php/Main_Page Freeplane]
+
| |[[Image:bubblus3.png|50px]]
 
|
 
|
| align=center|[http://www.xmind.net/ Xmind Pro]
+
| |[[Image:Management-reason-emotions.png|50px]]
|-
 
|}
 
</center>
 
It will repay you 100 times over to look up, and get used to the keyboard shortcuts that let you capture ideas quickly on the fly.  There are not many.  Most mind mapping software uses some combination of '''Enter''', '''Tab''', '''Ins''', and the '''cursor arrows''' to insert siblings, children and move around the map.  It's a pity that the software developers have not agreed a standard for which key does what but it's not that hard a task.  If the software you're using doesn't support this, consider making a change.  There are many free and low-costs ones that do. 
 
<br>
 
 
 
=== When planning writing, reports or blogs ===
 
... many writers swear by '''Scrivener''', though its 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>
 
{|
 
| valign="middle"|[[Image:ScrivenerOutline2.jpg|200px]]
 
 
|
 
|
| valign="middle"|[[Image:MindManager.jpg|194px]]
+
| |[[Image:Nitrogen-cycle.jpg|50px]]
 
|
 
|
| valign="middle"|[[Image:Topicscape-project-information-organizer.jpg|220px]]
+
| |[[Image:VUE2.jpg|50px]]
|-
+
|-  
| align=center|[http://www.literatureandlatte.com/screens5.html Scrivener]
+
|[[Choosing mind mapping software to design a web site|To design a web site or<br/>other publication]]  
 
|
 
|
| align=center|[http://www.mindjet.com/ MindManager]
+
| |[[Image:MindManager-web.png|50px]]
 
|
 
|
| align=center|[http://www.topicscape.com/ Topicscape]
+
| |[[Image:WriteMaps.jpg|50px]]
|-
 
|}
 
</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>
 
{|
 
| valign="middle"|[[Image:MindManager.jpg|194px]]
 
 
|
 
|
| valign="middle"|[[Image:WriteMaps.jpg|250px]]
+
| |[[Image:Powermapper.png|50px]]
 
|-
 
|-
| align=center|[http://www.mindjet.com/ MindManager]
+
|[[Choosing mind mapping software to organize personal tasks|To organize your personal<br/>tasks]] This really fits into both<br/>categories.
 
|
 
|
| align=center|[http://writemaps.com/ WriteMaps]
+
| |[[Image:Freeplane2.png|50px]]
|-
 
|}
 
</center>
 
<br>
 
 
 
=== For organizing your personal tasks ===
 
... if your life is simple and under control, '''Freeplane'''; If you have many projects on the go at once, then '''3D Topicscape Lite'''.
 
<center>
 
{|
 
| valign="middle"|[[Image:Freeplane2.png|180px]]
 
 
|
 
|
| valign="middle"|[[Image:Topicscape-Lite.jpg|132px]]
+
| |[[Image:Evernote.png|50px]]
|-
 
| align=center|[http://freeplane.sourceforge.net/wiki/index.php/Main_Page Freeplane]
 
 
|
 
|
| align=center|[http://www.topicscape.com/introduction-Topicscape-Pro-Lite.php Topicscape Lite]
+
| |[[Image:Topicscape-Lite.jpg|40px]]
|-
 
 
|}
 
|}
</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''', '''MAPMYself''', '''Mindomo''' or '''Wisemapping'''.  See which one fits your budget - the first three are free, but the others have more capabilities and are subscription-based.  Even the charged-for ones offer a limited-access free account.  MAPMYself is the only one that offers an organic feel and that's useful for some types of mind mapping - many people like that.  If you collaborate in planning or designing, these browser-based mappers satisfy a real need.
 
  
The ones I just mentioned have a mind mapping topology (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.
+
==== Where the '''MAP ITSELF''' is important ====
<center>
 
 
{|  
 
{|  
| valign="middle"|[[Image:Mind42a.jpg|240px]]
+
|[[Choosing mind mapping software for organizing information|When organizing information]]
 +
|
 +
| |[[Image:MindManager.jpg|50px]]
 +
|
 +
| |[[Image:Freeplane2.png|50px]]
 
|
 
|
| valign="middle"|[[Image:Mindmeister.jpg|200px]]
+
| |[[Image:MohioMap2.png|37px]]
 
|
 
|
| valign="middle"|[[Image:MAPMYself.jpg|200px]]
+
| |[[Image:Topicscape-project-information-organizer.jpg|50px]]
|-
+
|-  
| align=center|[http://www.mind42.com/ Mind42]
+
|[[Choosing mind mapping software for teams|If you often work in dispersed<br/>teams or groups]]
 
|
 
|
| align=center|[http://www.mindmeister.com/  MindMeister]
+
| |[[Image:Mind42a.jpg|50px]]
 
|
 
|
| align=center|[http://www.mapul.com/  MAPMYself]
+
| |[[Image:Mindmeister3.png|50px]]
|-
 
|}
 
{|
 
| valign="middle"|[[Image:Mindomo2.jpg|200px]]
 
 
|
 
|
| valign="middle"|[[Image:Wisemapping.jpg|200px]]
+
| |[[Image:MAPMYself.jpg|50px]]
 
|
 
|
| valign="middle"|[[Image:Bubbl.jpg|200px]]
+
| |[[Image:MindMup.jpg|50px]]
|-
 
| align=center|[http://www.mindomo.com/ Mindomo]
 
 
|
 
|
| align=center|[http://www.wisemapping.com/ Wisemapping]
+
| |[[Image:Mindomo2.jpg|50px]]
 
|
 
|
| align=center|[http://bubbl.us/ Bubbl.us]
+
| |[[Image:Wisemapping.jpg|50px]]
|-
 
|}
 
</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 images below cannot convey this.
 
<center>
 
{|
 
| valign="middle"|[[Image:Prezi3.png|250px]]
 
 
|
 
|
| valign="middle"|[[Image:Prezi.jpg|250px]]
+
| |[[Image:Bubbl.jpg|50px]]
|-
+
|-  
| align=center|[http://prezi.com/h26pn8blxhhw/prezi-capabilities/ The above live in Prezi]
+
|[[Choosing mind mapping software for presentations|For presentations with<br/>mind maps]]  
 
|
 
|
| align=center|[http://prezi.com/ Prezi]
+
| |[[Image:Prezi3.png|50px]]
|-
 
|}
 
</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].  Cmap has Windows, Mac OS X and Linux versions.  '''Inspiration''' can also make concept maps.
 
<center>
 
{|
 
| valign="middle"|[[Image:Management-reason-emotions.png‎|250px]]
 
 
|
 
|
| valign="middle"|[[Image:Nitrogen-cycle.jpg|255px]]
+
| |[[Image:Prezi.jpg|50px]]
|-
 
| align=center|[http://cmap.ihmc.us/conceptmap.html Cmap Tools]
 
 
|
 
|
| align=center|[http://www.inspiration.com/ Inspiration]
+
| |[[Image:VUE2.jpg|50px]]
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
</center>
 
<br>
 
 
 
== PC or Mac? ==
 
== 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: Freeplane, FreeMind; Xmind; MindNode; iMindmap Basic. Not free: Novamind; iMindmap (other versions); MindManager; Curio; Mythoughts; ConceptDraw.
 
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: Freeplane, FreeMind; Xmind; MindNode; iMindmap Basic. Not free: Novamind; iMindmap (other versions); 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 Freeplane 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.
 
 
Personally I use MindManager 8, 3D Topicscape Pro (naturally as much of it is my design), and sometimes FreeMind and nowadays Freeplane. 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.
 
 
 
== Mobile mapping ==
 
== Mobile mapping ==
 +
[[Image:Mobile-thumb.png|link=Mind mapping on the run|right]]I have to mention mind mapping on a mobile phone, pad or tablet.  Working on phone screens can be painful (once you've got over the 'Wow!' factor), but there can be times - when stuck on a train, for example - when you want to whip out your smartphone and start mapping.  Of those I've tried, iMindMap is the standout on really small screens. 
  
Finally, I have to mention mind mapping on a mobile phoneWorking 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 momentsOf those I've tried, iMindMap is the standout in this tiny format.
+
Mapping on an iPad is a different case - it is more practical, and here I'd warmly recommend iThoughtsHDNot only is it easy to use and able to make attractive maps, it has the ability to import and export maps from a wide range of other mind mapping softwareAnd its developer continually adds to its capability.
  
Mapping on an iPad is a different case - it is more practical, and here I'd warmly recommend iThoughtsHD.  Not only is it easy to use and able to make attractive maps, it has the ability to import and export maps from a wide range of other mind mapping software.
+
Here, then, is a [http://www.informationtamers.com/WikIT/index.php?title=Mind_mapping_on_the_run '''comprehensive list of mobile applications'''] with sample maps and my observations that you can consider for mapping on the run.
  
 
== What have I missed out? ==
 
== What have I missed out? ==
 +
Many excellent software packages!  One I haven't mentioned and really ought to is '''[http://www.novamind.com/ NovaMind]'''.  This 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.[[File:searchMMT.png|230px|right|link=https://www.mind-mapping.org/index.php?title=Special:MultiCategorySearch]]
 +
 +
You should also look at the long list of free mapping products here: '''[[Free mind mapping (and related types) software]]'''
  
Many excellent software packages!  One I haven't mentioned and really ought to is '''[http://www.novamind.com/ NovaMind]'''.  This is widely noted for producing very attractive maps, but with what I already have, I can't justify to myself the extra costIf you are in the market for a mind mapping software license and haven't committed yet, you should take a look at Novamind.
+
And if you're still unresolved, mind-mapping.org has a '''[https://www.mind-mapping.org/index.php?title=Special:MultiCategorySearch tool to help you choose]''' by operating system, type of map produced and many other features&rarr;
  
 
== More about mind mapping ==
 
== More about mind mapping ==
 +
===== Help in Twitter =====
 +
I'm on Twitter as @roygrubb where you'll often see me answering questions about information mapping and software.  I hope I'll see you there!  (''[http://twitter.com/roygrubb Follow me on Twitter]''.)
 +
===== WikIT =====
 +
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 ''[[Introduction to WikIT|explore now]]''?
 +
===== The free mapping software - detailed reviews =====
 +
Think that reviews of the features of free mind mapping and similar software, with examples, might be useful? Then pick up this ''[http://www.topicscape.com/blog/newsletter-subscription/ no-cost eBook]'' with its analysis that shows the capabilities of each package.  Grab your copy now!
 +
===== Libraries of mind maps =====
 +
One day you might want to scan through other people's mind maps to help with one of your own.  Bookmark this page about the ''[http://www.mind-mapping.org/mind-map-libraries.html main mind map libraries]''. You can search through all the libraries with one search.
  
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]'''.)
 
  
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]]'''?
 
  
  
 
'''<big>Roy</big>'''  
 
'''<big>Roy</big>'''  
  
PS  Don't forget to pick up a copy of the [http://www.topicscape.com/blog/newsletter-subscription/ eBook about free mind mapping and similar software]...
 
  
<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>
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<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 3D mapping software called Topicscape. He is at present based in Hong Kong.</small>

Latest revision as of 03:55, 30 July 2018

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 to spark ideas and facilitate brainstorming sessions, some while planning the writing of a report or blog post. 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. Here you will find recommendations, some free and some not so free.


Myself, I mostly use Xmind, 3D Topicscape Pro (naturally, as much of it is my design), MindManager, MindMeister and CMAP depending on what I’m doing. I have tried many, many others. 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 strict tree hierarchy and that’s something I find very limiting. The map below shows the advantage of being able to go beyond a tree structure.

Two drivers for mapping[edit]

I’ve been mapping for more than thirty years but soon after starting, I saw that there are two motivations for using mind maps (and similar visual models): When the process of making it is what’s important; or when the map itself is what you need.

(wondering which software made this map? Click here)

Either because it makes you think[edit]

The process of building the map can help you think something through, get new ideas or learn. The map map you make during this process will probably be filed away and forgotten when you’ve finished.


Someone seeing the map you produce may not be able to make much sense of it, but it’s how you got there that matters. 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, Xmind and Freeplane are good for this and provide quite a lot of freedom in layout to suit your own immediate needs. You may want to turn off auto-layout, though.

Or because you have something to share[edit]

Here, your colleagues’ 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 one 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.

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

. . . or even all occasions, so I’ve split this into a few articles. Choose the one(s) that fit your needs, or browse them all. You’ll find a link to the next article at the foot of each:

Where the PROCESS is what matters to you:[edit]

For study, learning and
memorization
Big goalsetting.jpg Nitrogen-cycle.jpg MyThoughts.jpg MindNode2.jpg Bubbl.jpg Free.jpg
For planning projects
and managing projects
MindManager.jpg Xmind2.png Topicscape-project-information-organizer.jpg Gantt.png
To spark ideas and
facilitate brainstorming
MindManager.jpg MindMup2.png Coggle.png Xmind.png
When planning writing,
reports or blogs
ScrivenerOutline2.jpg MindManager.jpg Topicscape-project-information-organizer.jpg
For concept maps (not mind
maps, but useful)
Bubblus3.png Management-reason-emotions.png Nitrogen-cycle.jpg VUE2.jpg
To design a web site or
other publication
MindManager-web.png WriteMaps.jpg Powermapper.png
To organize your personal
tasks
This really fits into both
categories.
Freeplane2.png Evernote.png Topicscape-Lite.jpg


Where the MAP ITSELF is important[edit]

When organizing information MindManager.jpg Freeplane2.png MohioMap2.png Topicscape-project-information-organizer.jpg
If you often work in dispersed
teams or groups
Mind42a.jpg Mindmeister3.png MAPMYself.jpg MindMup.jpg Mindomo2.jpg Wisemapping.jpg Bubbl.jpg
For presentations with
mind maps
Prezi3.png Prezi.jpg VUE2.jpg

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: Freeplane, FreeMind; Xmind; MindNode; iMindmap Basic. Not free: Novamind; iMindmap (other versions); MindManager; Curio; Mythoughts; ConceptDraw.

Mobile mapping[edit]

Mobile-thumb.png

I have to mention mind mapping on a mobile phone, pad or tablet. Working on phone screens can be painful (once you’ve got over the ‘Wow!’ factor), but there can be times – when stuck on a train, for example – when you want to whip out your smartphone and start mapping. Of those I’ve tried, iMindMap is the standout on really small screens.

Mapping on an iPad is a different case – it is more practical, and here I’d warmly recommend iThoughtsHD. Not only is it easy to use and able to make attractive maps, it has the ability to import and export maps from a wide range of other mind mapping software. And its developer continually adds to its capability.

Here, then, is a comprehensive list of mobile applications with sample maps and my observations that you can consider for mapping on the run.

What have I missed out?[edit]

Many excellent software packages! One I haven’t mentioned and really ought to is NovaMind. This 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.

SearchMMT.png

You should also look at the long list of free mapping products here: Free mind mapping (and related types) software

And if you’re still unresolved, mind-mapping.org has a tool to help you choose by operating system, type of map produced and many other features. →

More about mind mapping[edit]

Help in Twitter[edit]

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

WikIT[edit]

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?

The free mapping software – detailed reviews[edit]

Think that reviews of the features of free mind mapping and similar software, with examples, might be useful? Then pick up this no-cost eBook with its analysis that shows the capabilities of each package. Grab your copy now!

Libraries of mind maps[edit]

One day you might want to scan through other people’s mind maps to help with one of your own. Bookmark this page about the main mind map libraries. You can search through all the libraries with one search.



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 3D mapping software called Topicscape. He is at present based in Hong Kong.