Mindmap

Design-Thinking method: Mind Map

Mind Map is a useful method to organize information and to create a graphic and visual representation of ideas and problems. There are two types of maps, which are distinguished by their structure and the way connections are made between information:

• MENTAL MAP, characterized by a hierarchical structure built around a single concept or theme, drawn in the center of a page. They are helpful to present data and information visually.
• Conceptual map, characterized by a block-structure composed by three typical elements: conceptual knots, associative connections and descriptive labeling. They are helpful to represent the relationships between concepts and ideas.

How to:

1. Select the most appropriate mind map for the topic/problem at hand. Use it as a model to draft a new map.
2. Take a large sheet of paper (A2 at least) and begin to organise information pertaining to the topic/problem at hand. You can also work digitally using Miro tool.
3. Remember to use images, symbols, codes and so on. Words are important, but images are a simple and faster mode of communication.
4. Use different colours (at least 3), as well as fonts and underlining to prompt visual stimulation. The use of colour also makes it easier to trace the “path” of an idea within a map.
5. Select keywords and write them using upper and lower-case characters. Keywords work well along with images to convey the idea we wish to communicate.
6. Remember to emphasize connections within the map, and underline them creating new pathways for interpretation. If necessary, re-elaborate the map on a new sheet of paper, taking the new information acquired into consideration.

You can download the IDEActivity method cards from the Materials page, along with all the other Resources in the course.