DESIGN THINKING FOR INNOVATION

TOOL: MIND MAPPING

The challenge that I faced which required mind mapping was a fundraiser in my school. I  couldn’t decide what program to conduct for the fundraiser in order to get maximum  participation for my final goal to be achieved, which is to procure a good fund. The fundraiser  went towards educating under privileged children; therefore, it was absolutely obligatory to  obtain a considerable amount. The reason mind mapping turned out to be necessary in this  situation was due to the various programs attracting different customers. My final option was to  choose between a bake sale, talent show or prom night. I also had to get all the required products  according to the program chosen which required a mind map as well.

A mind map is a tool for the brain that captures the thinking that goes on inside your head. Mind  mapping helps you think, collect knowledge, remember and create ideas. Most likely it will  make you a better thinker. The reason I chose to use mind mapping as a tool to overcome my  challenge is due to the information being presented visually. It will help me structure information  well and analyze it better. The following links can be used to understand mind mapping further:

➢ https://www.mindmapping.com/  ➢ https://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/newISS_01.htm  ➢ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5nTuScU70As

I used mind mapping in order to evaluate the most cost-effective program that raises the most  funds. I also used the tool to map all the necessities for a successful program (bake sale was  chosen according to the tool). It was applied effectively and I was able to avoid unnecessary  complications and doubts.

I gained insight through this management tool and increased my capacity to think effectively and  quickly. It helped me be more organized and manage my time effectively. Mind mapping in  relation to design thinking gives a clear organization and structure, straightforwardness and  simplicity.

I would use the same tool in the future when it comes to these specific situations but I would try  to contain the branches/ minimize them to only needed information to avoid confusion.

In conclusion, Mind mapping is one of the efficient method to organize ideas and analyze  complex situations through breaking things down into smaller parts.

