“A mind map is a diagram used to visually organize information. A mind map is hierarchical and shows relationships among pieces of the whole. It is often created around a single concept, drawn as an image in the centre of a blank page, to which associated representations of ideas such as images, words and parts of words are added. Major ideas are connected directly to the central concept, and other ideas branch out from those.” -Wikipedia
A mind map is a particularly useful technique that a lot of entrepreneurs swear by as it helps them break the creative blocks and make brainstorming sessions more fruitful.
Here are a few reasons why you should use mind maps:
Increases efficiency
Mind maps can prove to be very efficient in increasing speed as it helps you break down huge volumes of data in an easy and efficient manner. Because mind maps are organised, changes or additions can be made to it without any hassle. The most important reason why people use mind maps is that they can have a large amount of data in one place which saves time and helps in better planning.
Structuring hierarchies
The mind map usually works on hierarchies which is why it allows the user to see all the levels of a hierarchy at once. By using the mind mapping, you make your job easier as you can use it to provide structure to the hierarchies in your map and understand the processes and relations in your map better. Because the map works on hierarchies, you are also clear of the more important objectives.
Generating more ideas
Sometimes during a brainstorming session, the panel might run out of ideas due to a creative block. In such dire situations, mind maps can prove to be useful as they evoke more creative and related words, concepts and ideas in your brain which can then be reassembled. Thus, the multi-layered, structured mind map can prove to be useful in getting your brain to think again.
Better decision making
Mind maps help you in making decisions because they are highly visual and detailed stuff which is listed down in a structured way. The map forces your mind to brainstorm potential solutions and list down the pros and cons attached to the solution. The map helps in reaching a balanced and thought out decision as you have enough information to rationalise your stance.