Here are the latest updates on the IQ Visual Mapping Conference. Highlights include a new conference blog with all the latest details, and an expanded format that will include presentations and displays by mind mapping software developers.

The developers of TPAssist 2007, a task and project management add-in for MindManager, have launched a “dashboard” on their website to help new users get up to speed on how to benefit from its powerful set of task management and Microsoft Office integration tools.

According to C.J. Cornell, writing in the latest issue of Mindjet’s newsletter, the developer’s new Connect collaborative workspace tool is likely to have a bigger impact than most people realize.

In a recent newsletter, NovaMind founder Gideon King outlined his plans for the future development of his firm’s flagship mapping program.

I’ve always been a fan of MindGenius. It’s a well-designed program with lots of great capabilities, but there’s just one problem: It hasn’t been updated in years. According to managing director Donald MacIver, all that’s about to change.

Mindjet has quietly bundled a beta of a new MindManager Web application into the launch of Mindjet Connect earlier this week. It provides a mapping experience that is a level above any other web-based mind mapping application.

Paul Urban, CEO of Essential Mind Mapping, has created a multimedia educational course on mind mapping that officially launched on Monday, June 16, 2008.

InformationTamers.com, a web site created by the developers of Topicscape, a 3-D mind mapping software program, walks the reader through concise and engaging analysis of different information management solutions, and their strengths and weaknesses.

One feature of the enhanced MindMeister Geistesblitz enhancements that I missed during the last upgrade is the ability to send topics to your default map, or create an entirely new map, via e-mail. This could be a great tool for businesspeople who want to capture ideas, but are only traveling with a Blackberry or other mobile device that supports e-mail or SMS. Read on for more details about this cool service!

SimTech, the developers of MindMapper , will release a new USB Edition of their flagship mind mapping program later this week. I’ve had a chance to play around with it for the last month, and I’m mighty impressed with how well it works.