iMapping

iMapping is different. It is hard to describe in what category the program falls exactly. It certainly does not look like your classic hierarchical Mind-Map, neither is it as simple as your average brainstorming tool. iMapping somehow combines parts of both areas into one program and it does so in a new way. But this also means, that it has a bit of a learning curve to use it. While Mind-Maps and Brainstorming tools als usually quite intuitiv, iMapping takes a bit until your brain figures out how to use it. The video on the website offers a good introduction though and watching it is really worth it.

Pros

• combines hierarchy and openness
• everything on "one" page
• Intuitiv once you get the hang of it
• All types of information can be stored (images, files, links)

Cons

• you have to learn how to use it a bit
• items do not position themselves (overlapping has to be solved manually)
• Expensive if you are not a student

[Edited by Terces, December 28]