Mind mapping software helps its users push past the limitations of thinking. It allows for processing information more efficiently than the pattern of thinking from the left to right and top to bottom only. This is especially useful to analyze a business process so that shared information is easily portable and helps to extract the essential points for a proper analysis.
Instructions
1. Begin with the topic of the business process to be mapped. This should be a general word or few words at the highest level.
2. Branch off a series of supporting topics of processes around your topic. Each needs to directly support the key business process. They can be related to each other or unrelated and you can have as many as needed.
3. Identify additional branches off each of the first level of branches as many times as needed until every branch has been expanded to its smallest piece. Work with one branch at a time to help organize thoughts in the beginning.
4. Review each branch to add anything missed as you analyze the entire process as one large map. Copy and paste any branches from other business processes that use any of the same pieces.
5. Include notes to further detail each node within the branches. Analyze the process as a whole and also make note of any questions or where questions need to be answered to better complete your business process.
6. Move any nodes that may have not been originally placed in the right order. Add any files that support the topics. Then, print out your map and analyze the process further for brainstorming and improvement of your process.
7. Revisit regularly to be sure the map still works best for your business needs.
