Virtual Assistant Forums | Work from Home

StephanieP · #1 (**permalink**) 10-07-2009

Hi, I've been trying to find ways to better keep track of everything that I've got going on and one of the most useful ways that I've found (for me) is mind mapping. I found a wonderful program by Mindjet that I absolutely LOVE but it's a bit pricey for me right now (definitely added to my wish list, though). So, in the meantime, I'm looking for a FREE application that will allow me to do something similar. Does anyone else find mind mapping useful for them (it's a bit more dynamic than creating a bunch of "To Do" lists IMO) and, if so, have you been able to find any FREE mind mapping applications that work just fine?

Thanks,

RebeccaT · #2 (**permalink**) 10-07-2009

I use wisemapping.com I used it when I wass figuring out my procedures. I also use it with new clients to show them what my thought process is for various things I do for them.

cbranch · #3 (**permalink**) 10-07-2009

Thanks Stephanie for bringing up this subject! I just thought I was going to need lots of paper to keep everything in my head organized.

Rebecca thank you for sharing this resource I am about to sign up right now!

StephanieP · #4 (**permalink**) 10-07-2009

thanks, Rebecca, the only thing I've found were trials and I want something that I can use on a more ongoing basis. My boss and I just had my evaluation meeting (it went pretty well, I think) and this was one of the things I said I wanted to look into to help with my goal of better Time Management. I just have sooooo much going on right now that I have a hard time keeping it all straight (I even asked for my own assistant but, alas, it's not in the budget

).

I just find that mind mapping seems to keep all of my thoughts grouped nicely together into individual categories/projects and that I get a bit lost working with a linear "To do" list.

Heading to wisemapping.com right now

frsvirtual · #5 (**permalink**) 10-07-2009

Hi there - another suggestion is http://www.toodledo.com/ - a free productivity tool. I'm not 100% sure it's what you're talking about, but just in case it could be useful to you, I figured I'd mention it. HTH!

Office Goddess · #6 (**permalink**) 10-07-2009

www.mindmapper.com used to offer a free version (don't know if they still do?!?) but I absolutely LOVE it. Very user friendly and simple.

Action Jackson VA · #7 (**permalink**) 10-07-2009

Have you tried using MS Office OneNote? It is a note book layout but on your computer. You can set it up to keep ongoing notes of work in progress, research projects, todo lists and have a note book for each client.

I also find it useful to keep client emails in (copy and paste) to go back and look at so I have not missed anything.

Andrea

cbranch · #8 (**permalink**) 10-07-2009

Andrea thanks for the information. I have this resource and didn't know it I will review it soon.

Office Goddess · #9 (**permalink**) 10-07-2009

Do you remember 'fish-bone graphs' from college?

\ \ \ \ \
------------------->
/ / / / /

It's a way of taking a linear thought and adding off-shoots (sub thoughts) along the line as you go. You can also add sub-sub thoughts. This is in essence what 'mind mapping' does. You start with a primary thought, then, as random thoughts pop off from the primary thought you log them. If another random thought pops off from the first random thought, you can log it under the first random thought, and so on. At the same time, you are still focusing primarily on the main thought without losing the sub thoughts as you go.

By using mind mapping software, you get a visual graphic of your thought process. We use this constantly and quite successfully in brain-storming sessions at my 9-5. By projecting the software on the wall, the various participants can see the thoughts and add to them without losing any during the process.