One of the real advantages of MindManager is that it appeals not only to “power users” but it is also well enough designed that a newcomer can get started with the basics, without becoming too overwhelmed. Also, it is supported by a dedicated group of developers who write a variety of add-ins that further extend its functionality – and your productivity. As with any “deep” product, it’s hard for the average person to fully understand all that this program is capable of. That’s why I’ve assembled this list of 10 lesser-known capabilities of MindManager that can help you to increase your productivity.

What are the best strategies for sharing your mind maps with others? I asked this question of the readers of this blog, and here’s a summary of the best practices that they shared.

A concept tree is a powerful, visual way to leverage current ideas to generate dozens of others, and find a unique solution to your challenge. Here are step-by-step instructions on how to create one, using mind mapping software.

When it comes to unraveling a complex business challenge, sometimes it helps to get a bit of “altitude” above it - to view it from a panoramic perspective where you can see all of its components and how they relate to each other. Mind mapping software can be an excellent tool for deconstructing a challenge, analyzing its root causes and envisioning creative solutions to it.

If you’re looking for a mind mapping program that will enable you to do project management – including Gantt charts – there are only four that offer this feature: MindManager Pro 7 (utilizing JCVGantt, which Mindjet recently acquired), OpenMind 2 Business Edition, MindMapper 2008 and iMindMap 3 Ultimate. Here’s a closer look at the functionality of each one of these powerful tools.

A mind map is a terrific tool to perform a SWOT analysis, which is used to evaluate the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats involved in a project or a business venture. Here’s how to use the capabilities of your mind mapping program to create an effective SWOT map/

What are the essential elements of an excellent mind map? Here’s what the readers of this blog had to say.

Stephen Shapiro, an innovation expert who I have known for a number of years - and for whom I have a great deal of respect - recently explained in his blog how he uses mind mapping software to manage his personal innovation pipeline.

Last week, I was fortunate enough to have a guest post published in LifeDev.net, one of the top personal productivity blogs on the web. This article explains how mind mapping software can help you to increase your creativity.

Most of the top mind mapping software programs now offer a presentation mode, which enable you to walk your audience one branch at a time through your map’s content in a very focused, engaging way. To do this effectively, however, there are a number of key things you need to keep in mind.