Brainstorming

What’s up with the brainstorming?

Using a computer-based tool for individual or group brainstorming can be helpful for generating Internet business ideas and the details of the business you decide to pursue. For example, when you have your business idea solidified, brainstorming tools are good for creative problem solving, business planning, website structure, keyword research and marketing ideas.

Some of these brainstorming applications use a mind mapping technique, which is a visual approach to brainstorming. Wikipedia explains mind mapping like this, “a diagram used to represent words, ideas, tasks, or other items linked to and arranged around a central key word or idea. Mind maps are used to generate, visualize, structure, and classify ideas, and as an aid in study, organization, problem solving, decision making, and writing.” Other tools listed below are for taking notes and rearrange them as needed. Select the approach that works best for the way you think and for the task at hand. Have fun!

Brainstorming and Notetaking Resources

CmapTools
This is a set of free mind mapping tools from a research institute that makes their software available to the public. A short registration form gives you access to the download page where you’ll find versions for Windows, Mac and Linux. It comes in multiple languages. They say the “software empowers users to construct, navigate, share, and criticize knowledge models represented as Concept Maps.” That about covers it.

Evernote
This is a notetaking tool letting you take notes and synchronize them online, on your computer and on your phone. Don’t lose those great ideas! Get a free account or pay for the premium version with more features.

FreeMind
FreeMind is a free sophisticated mind mapping application you can download for Windows, Mac and Linux.
It is rich with features, letting users do such things as: fold the child topics into the selected parent topic, select a variety of fonts and rearrange nodes in a map with drag-and-drop capabilities.

Jot Notes+
This simple application does just what it says. It’s good for jotting down those all important ideas before you forget them.

Mind Manager
This is a full-powered, highly recommended mind mapping software that might take a little while to learn how to use.

Mindomo
Mindomo is an online visual mind mapping tool. You can register for a basic account at no cost or pay a small amount every month for an account with more functionality.

Mine Meister
An online (or offline) and collaborative mind mapping tool.