Using MindManager in academic research
Updated January 26, 2022
Using MindManager in academic research
Score 9 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Overall Satisfaction with MindManager
I run an academic research lab. I use it to plan my days, weeks and quarters e.g. I have a map called "Today" that keeps me on track along with a new map for each week that tracks more goals. I also have maps for the overall lab goals. I often use maps to help brainstorm and outline new grants and papers that I'm writing.
- Brainstorming
- Process Mapping
- Task and Project Management
- Project Planning
- I use it often to brainstorm and then arrange the topics into an outline.
- It's a very easy, graphical and flexible way to setup a to do list for both short and long term projects.
- I have also started using the flowchart capabilities to details experimental plans.
- I would like to be able to select several topics and group them, then color them as a group.
- Right when I select a set of topics and select Boundary, each topic gets its own boundary.
- I would like an easier process to customize my maps e.g. with specific fonts, colors, etc. I know that this can be done, but I would like it to be easier.
- In the latest version I'm having trouble linking to Outlook emails. This may be due to a change in outlook, but it is a capability that I really miss.
1 to 10
- It definitely helps me efficiently manage and track my projects and tasks.
- During meetings, I often generate maps rather than to do lists which adds some valuable structure. These maps then help my students and post-docs design and execute new experiments.
- Mindmaps have been an invaluable way to keep track of notes and ideas - much better than documents or pieces of paper that get lost in a pile. I have very little need for post-it notes to stick around my office when I can add brief notes & ideas to my dashboard map.
When I am writing a grant or paper, I often start by brainstorming ideas onto a map. This eventually turns into an outline which lets me then open up a Word document with a clear direction. The ability to move things around is very important and a clear advantage over generating an outline within a word processing program.
I have evaluated some freeware programs but they are much more limited and not as easy to use. I like the user interface and the ability to attach documents and link maps to one another.
Do you think MindManager delivers good value for the price?
Yes
Are you happy with MindManager's feature set?
Yes
Did MindManager live up to sales and marketing promises?
Yes
Did implementation of MindManager go as expected?
Yes
Would you buy MindManager again?
Yes