(Mind) Mapping Success Out of Chaos!!!

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Typical Project Management Challenges

Day-to-day, project managers face some typical challenges in their quest to deliver successful initiatives. Some of these challenges include tracking budgets/resources, mapping outcomes to synergy targets, nailing down/documenting project scope, risk management, motivating teams, controlling project assets, documenting processes, adhering to tight deadlines, effectively communicating, keeping track of the “big picture” and producing effective status reporting for senior management.


Traditional Project Management Tools

Many managers use traditional project management tools on their mission to tame these challenges. Such tools include handwritten notes, documents, calendars, eMail, to-do-lists, contact lists, spreadsheets, flowcharts, project plans and presentations. These are all great tools except for one main challenge…they only support linear thinking. And linear thinking is limited. Why not Let your mind run free and add Mind Mapping to your arsenal of management tools?


What is MindMapping?

Mind mapping is a concept created in the early 70s by Tony Buzan. The technique is based on the fact that our brains do not process information in a linear fashion. In Mind Mapping, words, images and color are used to capture ideas (this is appealing to our creative, Right Side of our brains). The central idea is drawn and main points radiate outward. Main points then sprout branches and twigs (Radiant Thinking). Different colors used for each radiant thoughts/sub-thought. Little line drawings and images are used to connect thoughts. Mind Maps can be “hand drawn” or you can use one of the many software packages that exist.


Why Mind Maps Work

Mind Maps are very effective because they help us to think and remember more effectively. They assist us in creatively solving problems and taking action. They encourage flexibility by fostering an “outside the box” non-linear thinking mode. They are realistic in the way we process information since our brains do not think in a linear fashion. Not all ideas organize themselves tidily into an outline format. They allow you to see the “big picture” and naturally hook into your right brain (creativity and intuition). The most effective outcome of using Mind Maps is that we can Visualize what Success will like rather quickly!


So What Can Mind Maps be Effectively Used For?

PMO/Project Management Governance

Vendor Management

Project Planning

Executive Dashboards

Work Breakdown Structure

Scope Requirements Documenting

Risk Management

Goal Setting

Brainstorming Sessions

Time Management

Meetings/Minutes

Collaboration/Training

Writing Projects

Objectives/Reviews

To-do-lists

Event Planning

Vacation Planning

Strategic Planning

Resumes

…and many more potential uses!!!


I have personally embraced the use of Mind Mapping techniques to deliver many successful projects as well as turned around many chaotic ones. I have effectively used and have trained others on using these techniques to deliver major initiatives. From personal goal setting and time management, running brainstorming sessions for small teams to delivering $250+ Million initiatives they have proven to be very valuable in the arsenal of management tools. The most rewarding aspect of being a consultant is not only when I can explain how I intend to help clients be successful, but when I can HELP them VISUALIZE their SUCCESS!!!

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