Off Tool

How To Find The Right Mindmap Software Tool

SHOCKING NEWS: We now have almost ONE million different mindmap software tools, it won't be long before we are there.

No, of course we don't have that many different tools, but we are moving in that direction! When I started mind mapping on my computer, there were a perhaps 15 different REAL mind mapping tools available. Things have changed since then...

Is it easier to create a good mindmap because there are so many tools you can use?

I don't think so. Actually... the real mindmap tools from then are still leaders in this field today. There are 3 reasons why this did not change and will not change... soon.

1. When you create a mindmap using a certain tool, you are kind off stuck to that tool. Sure, there are some ways of converting maps, but moving to a new tool requires a lot of work.

2. You create maps with your own tool. This tool does everything you need and you don't need anything else. People keep working with the familiar tools even if there are tools which better suit their needs

3. Your tool works a certain way. You know the keyboard shortcuts. You know where to find features. Using a new tool will create a loss in productivity in the short term.

You Hold Yourself Back

If you already have many maps in a particular format, you are not likely changing tools.Suppose you find a new tool which offers you more (much more)... would you consider changing tools?

To be honest, I probably would not do that. I would use two different tools next to each other.

You see... I create many maps on my computer. I connected these to each other in my master mindmap. It needs a really, really good tool to make me re-create all my maps.

So how did I find my 'wonder' mindmap software tool? Here's how:

The Quest Begins

Just after I learned how to mindmap, I wanted to create a mindmap on my computer. I googled on mindmap software and found 5 different tools.

I downloaded these and created some small mindmaps in each tool. I added images, added notes and had a look at what I could do besides creating a mindmap with that tool.

This testing resulted in finding my main mindmap tool. So here is how I found my mindmap tool:

 

1. Google on 'mindmap software'
2. Download 5 different tools which are mentioned a lot
3. Install all tools and create mindmaps
4. Determine which tool is the easiest to use
5. Determine which tool offers the best features besides mind mapping (export, import, planning, etc.)
6. Choose the tool which seems to perform best.

 

Sharing Knowledge With Our Community

At that time, I didn't have anyone to ask how I could find the tool I needed. In fact... I didn't even know what I wanted to do with the tool besides creating a mindmap!!!

This entire process obviously took some time. I had to investigate many tools and learn how to work with them. Since this took so much time and I had all that knowledge, I created a website which offered free advice on finding the right tool. I gave back to the community.

I created the first mindmap software blog which offered a (bi-)monthly podcast (=audio broadcast) for people who wanted to stay updated on mindmap software tools.

My knowledge on 5 tools quickly expanded to knowledge of about 25 tools. There were so many tools released that it was not possible to remain up to date myself. In order to give good advice, I had to limit the number of tools.

Interestingly, the tools which remained were the same tools I started out with (and a few additional ones)!

My advice to find the right tool now is different than how I found my tool. There are two methods of finding the right tool. They both start with the following step:

1. Determine what you want to do with your tool

If you just want to create & use mindmaps, you don't have to buy a fancy tool which can export, import, etc. This saves you a lot of money.

There is a short and a normal route to find your personal mindmap tool.

The short route:

2. Send a tool independent advisor (like myself) your reason for mind mapping on a computer plus how big your budget is. He/she will take tell you which tool(s) to test.

The normal route:

2. Visit websites dedicated to mindmap software and determine which tools you can use to reach your goal in computer mind mapping. Be sure to visit a number of different sites. Also read (independent) reviews on the tools you find interesting.

3. Download and test the tools you may need or like.

Step 2 will take you some time. Right now, I would advise you not to use tools which are solely online. When your Internet connection is down, you will not be able to use your tool or reach your mindmaps!

What to focus on in your tool

Most people only want to create and use nice mindmap overviews on their computer. Business users may find it useful to connect to databases. Today we focus on you, the user who wants to make mindmaps. These can be for you personally but also for you in your business. The main thing is: you create mindmaps you use and don't really share and work on together.

Most tools allow you to create nice mindmaps. Here are the three questions you should answer:

 

1. How easy is it to dump the information from my brain into a computer mindmap?
2. What else can I do besides creating a mindmap?
3. How expensive is the tool?

 

The third concern is often not that important. Sure, you may have to spend some money on a tool. If may even be quite a lot of money. You have to realize that this is something you only do once. From then on you can enjoy your tool for many years! (that is, if you buy the right tool).

For me, the first question is the most important one. I need to be able to easily dump brain information and knowledge in a mindmap. That's just it most of the time. Sure, it would be nice to export to MS Word. Still when looking at my own mindmaps, it is often not the case. I only use the tool to create and update my mindmaps.

Remember, my mindmap is my personal assistant. I only share information with my assistant and let the mindmap show me the content in an organized fashion.

What's Next?

If you are looking for a mindmap tool, you have to follow these steps:

 

1. Determine why you want to mindmap (affects cost of the tool)
2. Find tools or receive a list of tools to use (from advisor) and test these (simple interface?)
3. Does this tool really serve your needs? If so, buy the tool and start using it!

 

Understand that the tool you start to use will probably remain to be your primary tool for computer mind mapping. You really need to be sure of your tool and what you want to do with it!

Creating clarity and overview in your information will give you a clear mind. This is vital when you want to create success in your life. When you like to learn more on how you can manage yourself, your environment and how information influences you, have a look at http://MindmapsUnleashed.com

 

About the Author

Creating overview in your information, environment and life is my goal. I do this using proven techniques like visual and mind mapping, time management, goal setting and summaps.

The basic outcome of my work is always the same: you understand better what you are doing and what influences you. The next step I assist people with is easy. They learn how to create the life they want, all because of a clear understanding of their inner and outer environment.

Despite what you may be thinking, everything we will do is proven and very practical. The things I teach people are the actual techniques I use to give direction and meaning to my own life and the lives of my clients.

As you may have thought, I am not a native English speaker and writer. I believe most native English speakers and people from all around the world will benefit from working with me.

I decided long ago that my life should be moving in the direction I want it to go. This stimulated me to research the many techniques and mindsets needed to do this. I would love to share these with you.

Are you ready to give more meaning and direction to your life?

Tool Loan Tear-Off Tags $2.3 Tool loan jumbo tear-off tags notify employees what tools have been loaned out and when it will be returned. Wording: "Tool Loan". Tags come numbered to make tracking tags simple (Emedco chooses the number sequence). Supplied with string. 7-1/2"h x 4"w.

Factory Reconditioned Campbell Hausfeld TL053500RB Air Cut Off Tool $19.99 Air Cut Off Tool - TL053500RB

5564A - Cut-Off Tool $81 [672-5564A] UPC: 78115020049 2.15 LB

K Tool International Pinch Off Pliers. Each $18.06 Manufacturer: K Tool International. Each. Customers also search for: Discount Pinch Off Pliers, Buy Pinch Off Pliers, Wholesale Pinch Off Pliers, 769622711007, ToolWeb, Pliers

Tear-Off Tool Loan Tags $1.4 Two tags in one saves you time and money. Tag reads "Tool Loan"Tags made from 13 pt. cardstock paperEconomical choice for dry, clean environments Comes with a reinforced fiber patch designed to resist tearingEasy to write on with pen, pencil or permanent markerAll Tags are 7-1/2"H X 4"WTags have a white background with green textSold individually

Type 110/88 Wire Fix Cut Off Impact Punch Down Tool $7.53 Type 110/88 Wire Fix Cut Off Impact Punch Down Tool

DEWALT DC411B 18V Cordless XRP 4-1/2-in Cut-Off Tool Kit (Bare Tool Only) $99 18V Cordless 4-1/2" Cut-Off Tool (Bare Tool Only) - DC411B. Batteries sold separately

K-D On/Off Magnetic Pickup Tool $19.95 This 22''-long flexible retrieving tool is able to lift 1-1/2 lbs. The spring operated magnet will not stick to metal areas until activated, which is achieved by simply pushing the plunger. Tool is flexible for snaking through difficult areas.

Milwaukee Elec. Tool Milwaukee Elec. Tool M18 Cut-off Bare Tool 268020 $131.08 M18 cut-off bare tool The M18 cordless 4-1/2? cut-off/grinder provides speed, durability and ease-of-use to the industrial user Built with a Milwaukee 4-pole motor, the 2680-20 delivers maximum power when cutting or grinding The 2680-20 is the only cordless cut-off/grinder in the market to provide the user-preferred paddle switch for comfort and ease-of-use when operating in various positions L-shaped intake vents protect the cut-off/grinder by keeping harmful debris from entering the tool and damaging internal components Brand #: Milwaukee Elec. Tool 268020 UPC: 045242158799 Keywords: cut off grinder cordless angle small tool

Guardian GDTGS Main Gas Shut Off Tool $20.61 Zincplated steel tool made in the USA. Comes with light reflective tape for easy location at night and a zip tie to hang near gas meter. Fits 1/2 and 3/4 valves and is easy to use. To shut off gas apply tool to valve and turn 1/4 of a turn. When ready to restore gas supply contact the gas company or a qualified plumbe

3'' Air Cut-Off Tool $87.95 ? Lock off throttle to prevent accidental start up ? Rear exhaust directs air away from workpiece ? Built-in regulator matches speed to job ? Applications: cutting through sheet metal, fiberglass, bolts, muffler clamps and hangers; also grinds down burrs and rough edges ? Free Speed: 22000 rpm Specifications: Wheel Size in.: 2-7/8 Weight lb.: 1-3/4 Length in.: 7-1/4 Average Air Consumption CFM: 5 Air Inlet NPTF in.: 1/4 Free Speed rpm: 22000 Model Number 874 By Chicago Pneumatic.

DEWALT DCG412B 20V MAX Cordless Lithium-Ion 4-1/2-in Cut Off Tool (Tool Only) $119 20V MAX Cordless Lithium-Ion 4-1/2-in Cut Off Tool (Tool Only) - DCG412B. Two-Position Handle. Type 1 Cutting Guard. Wrench. Tool Only - Battery and Charger Sold Separately

Milwaukee Elec. Tool Milwaukee Elec. Tool 18v Li-ion Cut Off Tool 268022 $419.46 18v li-ion cut off tool 8000 RPM motor runs on 18V XC litium ion batteries Only 15? in length and weighs just 4.9 lb Paddle switch design for ease of operation Quick release guard and 3 position side handle for controlled operation Includes (2) 18V XC batteries, 1 hour charger, and case 5 year warranty on tool and 5 year 2000 charge warranty on batteries Brand #: Milwaukee Elec. Tool 268022 UPC: 045242158812 Keywords: tool angle grinder cut off 18v li ion m18

A Workman Using a Grinding Tool to Cut Off Tube Ends in the Broiler Section $79.99 A Workman Using a Grinding Tool to Cut Off Tube Ends in the Broiler Section - Premium Photographic Print

Porter-Cable PC18AG Tradesman 18V Cordless Cut-Off Tool / Angle Grinder (Bare Tool) $39.99 Tradesman 18V Cordless Cut-Off Tool / Angle Grinder (Bare Tool) - PC18AG. Grinding Wheel. (2) Cut-Off Wheels. Side Handle. Grinding Guard. Metal Cutting Guard. Wrench

Dc415Kl - 36V Cut Off Tool $598.66 [115-DC415KL] Truck Delivery

Campbell-hausfeld Campbell-hausfeld Air Cut-off Tool TL053599AV $27.61 Air cut-off tool Air Cut-Off tool in grab-and-go carry case for quick and easy storage of tool and accessories Easy-to-use 20,000 RPM provides the speed and power to cut through 1? diameter steel rods, copper/aluminum tubing, fiberglass, and angle iron up to 1/2? Easy-to-crimp soft grip for increased comfort Kit includes air cut-off tool, (3) 3? cutting disks, collet wrench, 1/4? steel Male plug, and blow molded case 1/4? NPT inlet, 11.8 SCFM at 90 P.S.I Brand #: Campbell-Hausfeld TL053599AV UPC: 045564625382 Keywords: air cut off tool compressor

Dewalt Dewalt 36V Cut Off Tool DC415KL $502.55 6,500 rpm for fast cutting speed Convenient trigger switch with lock-off button for easier gripping 2 Position side handle offers greater comfort and control Quick-Change??¢ Wheel Release allows tool free wheel removal without need for a wrench Low profile, jam-pot gear case provides precise gear alignment for a smoother, quieter transmission while allowing access to tight spaces DEWALT?® exclusive lithium ion cells offer long battery life & durability: 2,000 recharges Brand #: Dewalt DC415KL UPC: 028877585901

Creative Versa-Tool heat tool $26.55 Walnut Hollow has developed the perfect heat tool for the individual who likes to do it all. The Creative Versa-Tool has all the options and functions required by hobbyists, crafters, and artists alike.The Tool is ideal for woodburning, leather crafting, soldering, stamping, paper crafting, hot knife cutting, pattern transferring, embossing, stencil cutting, and personalizing.The Versa-Tool comes with:950 Tool featuring Comfort Grip and On/Off SwitchStandStorage case with dividers11 interchangeable pointsLead free solder with rosin coreTips for suggested techniquesCreative Versa-Tool Tips and Techniques pamphlet is also available (sold separately). The Tool comes with so many points and can be used on so many surfaces, and this booklet shows how to use each point to achieve different results.

Dewalt Dewalt 18v Cut-off Tool-bare DC411B $120.9 18v cut-off tool-bare 4-1/2? 18V cordless cut-off tool This cut-off tool provides its users with first-rate performance and durability along with exceptional ergonomics With no load speed, the 6500 RPM provides high power for cutting and grinding applications, and the jam-pot style, low profile gear case provides precise gear alignment for a smoother, quieter transmission while allowing access to tight spaces The cut-off tool has a 5/8? to 11? spindle thread, and the convenient trigger switch has a lock-off button for easier gripping Weighing only 4.6 lb The cut-off tool is easy-to-handle with a 2-position side handle that offers greater comfort and control The quick-change wheel release provides easier and quicker wheel removal without the need for a wrench The tool is compatible with the DeWALT 18V system and works with all 18V DeWALT batteries (XRP, XRP Lithium Ion, and Compact) (Does not include battery or charger) Brand #: Dewalt DC411B UPC: 885911186285 Keywords: cut off tool 18v cordless angle grinder small

Ingersoll Rand Heavy Duty Air Cut Off Tool. Each $63.31 Manufacturer: Ingersoll Rand. Each. Features Benefits: Tool exhaust replacement is this powerful tool's specialty Now you can cut off mufflers and tail pipes quickly, efficiently, and quietly It has an 18,000 rpm motor that can handle the toughest exha

K Tool International Brake Spring Tool. Each $9.53 Manufacturer: K Tool International. Each. For taking off and re-installing the heavy center springs Customers also search for: Discount Brake Spring Tool, Buy Brake Spring Tool, Wholesale Brake Spring Tool, 769622701329, ToolWeb, Disc and Drum Brake Tools

Bushing Tool $24.95 ? Bushing tool?s off-set design allows for easy access to both door half and body half hinges to easily punch out bushings and maintains bushing alignment for quick installation ? Saves technicians up to 20 minutes per repair and minimizes bushing breakage ? Immediate access to the bushingBy Steck Autobody.

Vise Grip 7" Locking Pinch Off Tool. Each $18.45 Manufacturer: Vise Grip. Each. Pinches off and locks on tubing Leaves both hands free to do other work Size: 7î / 175mm Jaw thickness: 1/4î / 6mm Throat depth: 1î / 25mm Boxed stock: 29 Customers also search for: Discount 7" Locking Pinch Off Tool, Buy 7

Fin Tool $8.99 Professional Quality Maintenance Fin Tool For Straightening Condenser And Evaporator Fins On Central And Window Air Conditioning Units. Fixed Steel Tines Loosen And Clean Accumulated Scum And Dust Off Air Conditioner Fins. Fits Virtually Any Fin Size And Style. Helps To Promote Maximum Cooling Efficiency. Tubular Aluminum Body.

Long-Neck Cut-Off Wheel Tool $247.95 ? Easily access difficult to reach areas. ? Extended design is advantageous over conventional cut-off tools allowing access to tight or confined areas. ? 20,000 RPM with rear exhaust. ? Accepts standard 3'' wheels with 3/8'' center hole. ? Plenty of power for everyday shop tasks.Model Number DYN18075.By Dynabrade.

Designer Crimper Tool crimper tool $11.88 Close and secure beads and tubes with this easy-to-use hand tool. Lower-position grooves crimps beads and tubes tightly closed with one firm grip; upper-position grooves round off edges for a smooth result and professional appearance. Measures 5 in. long.

Chicago Pneumatic Cut Off Air Tool. Each $68.02 Manufacturer: Chicago Pneumatic. Each. Features Benefits: Chuck size/wheel size: 2-7/8"- 73mm Weight 1-3/4 lbs. - Kg Length 7-1/4" - 181mm Avg. air consumption: 12.5 CFM Air inlet NPTF 1/4" Min. hose size 3/8" - 10mm Lock off throttle to prevent accide

Ken-Tool SerpentDemount Tool. Each $203.86 Manufacturer: Ken-Tool. Each. Features and Benefits: Makes demounting easier than ever Demounts both beads on most truck tires without the need for lifting the tire/wheel assembly off the ground, and then dropping it Made of heat-treated alloy steel for

DEWALT DC411KA 18V Cordless XRP 4-1/2-in Cut-Off Tool Kit $239.99 18V Cordless 4-1/2" Cut-Off Tool Kit - DC411KA. (2) 18 Volt Cordless XRP Batteries. 1-Hour Charger. Type 27 Guard. Type 1 Guard. (2) Matched Flanges. Type 1 Cutting Wheel. Wrench. 2-Position Side Handle. Kit Box

DEWALT DC410KA 18V Cordless XRP 4-1/2-in Cut-Off Tool Kit $269.99 18V Cordless 4-1/2" Cut-Off Tool Kit - DC410KA. (2) 18 Volt Cordless XRP Batteries. 1-Hour Charger. Type 27 Guard. Type 1 Guard. Backing Flange. Type 27 Wheel. Wrench. 3-Position Side Handle. Kit Box

Heavy Duty Air Cut-Off Tool $80.95 ? Exhaust replacement is this powerful tools specialty. Now you can cut-off mufflers and tail pipes quickly, efficiently, and quietly. It has an 18,000 rpm motor that can handle the toughest exhaust replacements and cut sheet metal, nuts and bolts. 3/8'' arbor x 2-7/8'' cutting wheel size (standard 3'') ? Fast and quiet ? Countoured lever throttle with positive self locking action ? Built in speed regulator ? 360 degreee rotatable chrome-plated spark guard Specifications: Free speed: 18,000 rpm Weight: 2.3 lbs. (1.04 kg) Length: 8.88'' (226 mm) Average air consumption: 10 cfm, @ load 25 cfm Sound (pressure/power): 94.3/107.3 dBA Air inlet: 1/4'' Model Number 326. By Ingersoll-Rand.

This entry was posted on Sunday, November 23rd, 2008 at 2:11 am and is filed under Uncategorized. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.