During brainstorming meetings and problem-solving sessions, many outputs are shared and  presented in fractals. Many of the design thinking methods we discussed aims to direct the  attendees thinking towards a specific flow in order to achieve creativity or find innovative  solutions for problems. Mind mapping is one of the efficient methods that organize all these in a  formation and in a visually brain-friendly method.

When we are thinking of an idea, taste a specific food or visit a place, our mind starts to link this  action with our memories and previous experience using a relevant model. Our brain starts with  one center action, color, taste or image and builds branches of thoughts that are used as a base  for other multiplied ideas. How we think works very similar to tree branches. This concept is  used as the basis for all mind mapping systems and approaches.

The usage for visual recording of ideas was first used in the 3rd century by Porphyry of Tyros to  visualize concepts and theories from Aristotle and Ramon Llull. However, it is introduced again  as one of the thinking methods by British psychologist, Tony Buzan. All mind-mapping  techniques follow similar guidelines:

 It starts with a single idea that is represented with text, color or image. Each idea should be

presented with one single word and use visual elements to categorize it such as, upper an  lower words, colors, codes and images.

 Ideas that are more subsidiary are added around the main idea and connect with it by lines.

All the branches should have connection lines that link it with the center idea.

 Unified hierarchy styles should be implemented through the mind map. This style uses

different visual elements to organize ideas.

As mentioned above, mind mapping is identified as one of the efficient tools to think and  analyze ideas and their related topics. Therefore, the mind maps can be used in various  situations –especially during the ideation and brainstorming stage. Mind mapping can be used  to achieve the following:

 Taking note during individual or group meetings. It can be used to summarize discussions or

create a to do list.

 Brainstorming ideas and find innovative solution during meetings

 Break down complex problems and idea into simpler and easy to follow fractals

 Analyze and process information collected during the research process

 Present information in a creative and easy to follow format

