Mind Mapping in the Quality Arena

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J

James Gutherson

#32
I am using MindManager for my computer generated charts. I have found this to be a good balance of power, and ease of use. There is a new version just relased that I have ordered and am eagerly awaiting. I plan to utilise the XML translation of map data in conjuction with a pocketpc based application to develop more intuitive palm top computer based checklists for our field staff.

The use of mind maps in the Intranet site has been a revalation. We have made extensive use of flowcharts in the past, but not all our processes are linear, so the flexibility of mind-maps has helped people make that intutitive link. It has also been extremly valuable in communicating relationships between concepts, functions, and policies.

I cannot remember whether it was the mindmapping or something else, I think now it was something from Randy Stuart, that has got me into the work of Eli Glodratt and the TOC. I am enthusiastically (Claes) downloading everything i can from the Goldratt Institute Website and I'm trying to track down his other books after reading 'The Goal' last month. The other books are hard to come by in this neck of the woods.
 
W

WALLACE

#33
Examples please?

Greg B and James Gutherson,
Would you like to post any examples of your Mind mapped information for viewing by Cove members?
Wallace.
 

Marc

Hunkered Down for the Duration with a Mask on...
Staff member
Admin
#34
Claes Gefvenberg said:
You should be able to attach the file if you zip it first.
Yes - as long as it's under 800K which is the software file size limit for uploads. It's a security issue allowing .exe files to be uploaded. Not because of the server, but rather to those who download attachments who are running a MicroSoft OS.

As a reminder, if anyone does want to post a file larger than the software will allow, you can send it to me by e-mail and I can post it with a link.

And BTW - as is obvious I merged the threads because there really weren't that many posts in the first thread so it's simpler to keep them together.

####################

With respect to the topic, I guess I'm getting old but to me it's a visual perception thing. We used to list inputs and outputs textually - as in lists and such. I started using flow charts rather than text procedures over 10 years ago because of the visual aspect. Mind mapping software is neat, but one is basically determining / evaluating / planning (whatever) the inputs and outputs of a process whether on a macro or a micro level as far as I can see.

As a side note, with respect to inputs and outputs, I understand the complexity. As a biologist, the human neural system is composed of cells with 'appendages' - axons and dendrites. It is typically thought of as a one-way system. But it is not. There is feedback at the cell-to-cell level which can 'back feed' through the system such as where axons act as dendrites. As in any system, feedback loops are important. I've just looked at a couple of attachments, but I didn't notice any feedback tracts. I can deal with that as they can be assumed.

When the first spreadsheet software was written it revolutionized accounting and many other areas by exponentially increasing the ability to try different scenarios and thus to better predict. See http://dssresources.com/history/sshistory.html

In the late 1980's there was a program for the Mac called Stella. It let you graphically set up a process and each input could be addressed by variables like time, percentages and such. It did not address product 'critical characteristics' per se, but you could set in a number of factors and then watch the process. 'Tubs' would fill and drain and of course you could watch the series and identify bottle necks and such. You could change variables and see the effect on the 'running system'.
WALLACE said:
Has anyone who has viewed the mind maps that Claes and I have posted, taken an interest in Mind mapping and how far have you taken the initial interest?
I have been looking at it and looked at all the attachments in the thread. It sounds static. Is there any where you can set variables on one side and see the output on the other side?

Or am I missing something here as to what mind mapping is?
 
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W

WALLACE

#35
Mind mapping

Marc,
Mind mapping?
Well it's certainly not too difficult to get a handle on what Mind mapping is and the potential uses.
I would suggest that you make a google search re- Mind mapping and you'll get all of the relevant information, without Claes or I blabbering on about the greatness of the tools and techniques of this very usefull utility.

Yes, I have noticed that the SoPK map isn't generating the interest that I wished for. This re-enforces the fact that the subject is still unknown to many within the quality, Safety and Environmental arena's and, yes it's not for everyone.
I've personaly had very good (Phenomenal) results using the tools and techniques of Mind mapping in my personal and business life.
At the base level, Mind mapping is a great brainstorming tool that allows you to see the "Big picture" regarding issues that need focus.
Wallace. :bigwave:
 
E

energy

#36
I'll bite

WALLACE said:
I've begun to post more Visual maps relating to Business management measurables, A system of profound knowledge and auditing.
Profound knowledge and auditing. Wow! Do I need a map to tell me how to think? I guess some of us do. I've looked at a few and saw my thoughts in print. Does that mean that they are now authenticated by those in the know?
WALLACE said:
If anyone at the Cove has questions regarding the validity of using Mind mapping tools and techniques within Business management, don't hesitate in posting your questions.
Where's the validity? What I see? Or what you see?
WALLACE said:
There's a few Mind mappers at the Cove. One notable Mind mapper at the Cove is Claes.
Very, very few, unless you can convince them otherwise....Some of us have minds of our own.
WALLACE said:
I'm sure Mind mapping shall get some air play at the Cove.
Wallace.
Sure it will. Probably not all the kind you want to see. :bonk: I don't mean to be so critical. It's just that you guys seem to speak another language that I either nod my head to in unquestionable obedience, or question it! What's it really all about, Alfie? :rolleyes:
 
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W

WALLACE

#37
Energy,
Thanks for your reply, I appreciate dialog regarding this fascinating subject.
I fully accept and understand that you are entitled to express your opinions based on your current knowledge or, lack of the subject of Mind mapping.
I would suggest that you search the internet for Mind mapping links. I know you shall certainly be overwhelmed with the vast amount of objective and independent information regarding the tools and techniques of Mind mapping.
Energy, if you care to view the SoPK map that has developed to date and, view it with an open mind, I would hope that you see a big picture emerging filled with details that are pertinent and related to systems thinking.
The validity of Mindmapping was tested and proven by Tony Buzan, the originator of what is now called Mind mapping. Tony developed the hand drawn form of Mind mapping that initially was developed as a tool for memory retention, using short worded sentences, symbols and many colours, these all being connected and interconnected by a system of branch like lines emanating from a focus, central or start point. Mind mapping is basicaly a non-linear form of Information processing.
Mind mapping has since become extremely popular within accademical circles.
You certainly don't need a Mind map to tell you how to think. The author of a Mind map is in control of what is put into the map as information.
There are Mind mappers at the Cove, Claes Gevfenberg and I are just more vocal about the power of this tool.
Using PC software to Mind map has become a different animal altogether. I use Visual Mind 6 software to Mind map. PC mind mapping is free from the constraints of paper space and, allows a user the luxury of virtual PC space, to be as complex or a simple as they wish when mapping out information that may form a knowledge base.
I am able to quickly and efficiently create information in a Mind mapped format, manage my information by arranging all of the information in a manner that suits my thought processes at that time by, inserting files and folders of relevance, drag and drop branches of information that allow me to manipulate the information and form a logical outlay. I can then save the mapped information as a mapped format, image file or, I can export all of the information to Word or Power point for presentation purposes. Mind mapping means to me what the telephone means to many people, it gives me the tools and techniques to be more efficient and effective when creating managing and sharing information.
Constuctive criticism is a great tool for feedback and, I again appreciate your feedback Energy.
I hope this gives you some usable information regarding the validty and purpose of Mind mapping and, I further hope this information shall widen your view and knowledge base of this subject.
Wallace.
 
E

energy

#38
You are a gentleman, for sure

WALLACE said:
Energy,
Thanks for your reply, I appreciate dialog regarding this fascinating subject.
Constuctive criticism is a great tool for feedback and, I again appreciate your feedback Energy.
I hope this gives you some usable information regarding the validty and purpose of Mind mapping and, I further hope this information shall widen your view and knowledge base of this subject.
Wallace.
And I appreciate the attitude in which you took my post. When replying to topics such as this, I worry that I'm being seen as an obstruction, rather than someone grasping for understanding. That's because I have a problem with sugar coating the pie. You're in good company with Claes, but I feel you two need to get on with life. Just kidding. Fascinating topic. :agree: :bonk:
 
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Wes Bucey

Quite Involved in Discussions
#40
Light from another source

energy said:
And I appreciate the attitude in which you took my post. When replying to topics such as this, I worry that I'm being seen as an obstruction, rather than someone grasping for understanding. That's because I have a problem with sugar coating the pie. You're in good company with Claes, but I feel you two need to get on with life. Just kidding. Fascinating topic. :agree: :bonk:
Personally, I have no ax to grind for or against Mind Mapping. Perhaps I'm overstepping my self-imposed rule of writing only about stuff that passionately interests me. I have a hunch Energy expresses a thought many Covers have in the back of their mind:
"So how does Mind Mapping affect me?"

IMO, mind mapping is really only pertinent at a "brainstorming stage" of a project. Its nonlinear character often makes it unsuitable for training sessions since most tasks are linear and have to be performed in a specific order to achieve a desired end result.

The best uses of mind mapping (including some comments I recall from Tony Buzan's early work) are to avoid getting trapped in a rut while trying to manage change or solve problems. Some of the stuff I recall from the hand drawn map days included the concept of being able to add additional "spokes" (that's how I thought of the radiating arms of ideas jutting off from the main theme) at any time in the process, even coming back days or weeks later to add points or clarifications to one of the spokes, which could then further divide off like twigs on a branch.

Some of us are not "hard wired" to ideate in the free wheeling atmosphere of a brain storming session or to work out our problems with a mind map. It doesn't make us better or worse, just different. The guru many of us try to emulate (Deming) always posited there should be no penalty for being "different."

For some of us who struggle to get a handle on "mind mapping"
think about some time back in your school days when teachers assigning a research project encouraged you to write down little tidbits of information on 3 X 5 index cards. If you took all of your index cards after writing your little tidbits, shuffled the deck, then spead them out all around you in a big circle on the floor, you'd have a close approximation of the original "mind map."

Some of the kids in my classes got a little fancy and introduced several colors of cards.

Ultimately, though, we all ended up putting our cards in some sort of order so we could outline and then write out our project.

IMO, mind mapping is a nice tool, but we should not be like one of my grandchildren who got his hands on my son-in-law's hammer. Everything looked like a nail to my grandson, because he only had one tool.
 
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