Hand Drawn Mind Maps vs Software

Should you hand-draw a Mind Map or use Mind Mapping Software/Thinking technology such as iMindMap V5?

hand drawn vs computer mind mapping small

Both of course! Which mind mapping strategy you use will depend on the purpose of your Mind Map – the desired outcome. There are different strengths and weaknesses for both, including:

Hand-drawn Mind Map Computer Generated Mind Maps
Benefits 

  • memorable – less changing
  • Personality
  • Ownership
  • More organic
  • Quick to initiate (just grab a piece of paper)
  • Can draw them anywhere
  • Basic Equipment needed – pen and paper
  • Cheap
  • Allows time to think
  • Can see the big picture – the whole page
  • Childlike – more creative
  • Focus is on the process of mind mapping
  • Kinesthetic and even therapeutic

Drawbacks

  • hard to edit and make alterations
  • Messier – legibility for others
  • Limitations of space – Mind Maps are a generative thinking process and if you run out of paper it can stop your thinking
  • Can be too personal
  • Quality of image
  • Dependent on skills
  • Dependent on paper size
  • May not appear ‘corporate’ or sophisticated
  • Not easy to share Mind Maps with others
  • Storing Mind Maps – can easily be lost or destroyed
 Benefits of iMIndMap 

  • Easy to edit / Change
  • Plug into technology – Bigger audience
  • Easy to share
  • Easy to send to others
  • Unlimited Size
  • Flexibility
  • Back up
  • Controlable
  • Professional
  • Use Drawing tools and Icons
  • Easier to read
  • Multiple copies
  • Converts to text and other formats
    - helps with learning and study skills
  • Multi media – allows links to other files and software programs
  • Allows post processing – analysis – such as search, filter, comparison.
  • Colour selection

Drawbacks

  • Less memorable
  • too homogenous
  • lack of computer skills may slow you down
  • Cost
  • Barriers to entry – having a computer
  • Information overload
  • Restricted to power socket – less portable

It is not a case of either / or but of different approaches for different applications, age groups and professions.

We recommend that you use both computer software such as iMindMap as well as hand drawn Mind Maps.

iMindMap while it is a mind mapping software program, it does not focus on technology. It focuses on the tools and the process of Mind Mapping.

“The main focus is on the Thinking – not the Technology”
Chris Griffiths, inventor of iMindMap

Why not give iMindMap a try now and compare – 7 day trial Free

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Download a 7 day free trial, with the full iMindMap Ultimate feature set, and when the 7 days are up you will have a free license for iMindMap Basic! A small gift from ThinkBuzan to the world…

free download of imindmap mind mapping software apple windows linux

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3 Options – Australian Dollars, US Dollars or Purchase Order

1. Go to ThinkBuzan.com to download/purchase in US dollars

2. Buy iMindMap 5 Direct in Australian Dollars

3.  For Businesses and Schools in Australia who want to use a purchase order for a Multi-User License contact us direct on 1800 060 982 or info@mindwerx.com

If you already have iMindMap Elements or Professional and want to UPGRADE just click here.