About

A mind map is a diagram of your understanding of a subject. A mind map can be used for studying, for thinking about and discussing a topic, for planning, and so forth. Use a mind map to plan a design project, and when you are designing during the EMPATHISE stage. Note down your understanding of the design topic, and what you need to know. Write short labels on the mind map, make little drawings or draw symbols, whatever you need.
 

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​​​​​​​FIGURE: A mind map that gives an overview of a ‘home system,’ and describes its sub-systems including electricity, water, security, communication, and so forth. Such a mind map helps a designer to plan a design project, or allows them to view the subject of a design topic as a whole, while opening up many avenues of further research.

​​​​​​​What you need

• You can map alone, but drawing a mind map in a group of around three to five designers should give better results.
• A3 printer paper, or you may use a chalkboard or whiteboard.
• Coloured markers, pens, or pencils.

Method

• Write the title of the mind map in the centre of the page. For example, write ‘Home Automation System’ if that is your design topic. Draw a border around the title.
• Branch out from the centre with lines, the most important subjects first, noting what you know about the topic.
• You may write down your questions about the design topic on the mind map, or you can add them to your Research Questions (IV) list in your notepad.
• Add little drawings to make your mind map memorable.
• Add colour using coloured pens or pencil to liven up your map.
• Check your mind map.
  • Have you covered the topic adequately?
  • Is there anything you need to add?

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Tips

• You may enlarge your mind map by taping more paper to the side of your map.
• It is a good idea to review the mind map a couple of days later, to see if anything needs to be changed or added, and to re-draw it in a neat and organised way.
• Record your mind map for safekeeping by scanning it or photographing it.