DELFT DESIGN GUIDE — 55 DISCOVER

MIND MAP
When can the method be used? A Mind Map is a graphical representation of ideas and
With a Mind Map you can map all the aspects organised around a central theme, showing how
relevant aspects and ideas around a theme,
bringing structure and clarity to a problem.
these aspects are related to each other.
It provides an overview and is especially
useful for identifying all the issues and sub- STEP 3 Tips & Concerns
issues related to a problem. Mind Maps can Add branches to the lines as necessary. • You can find software for Mind Mapping
also be used for generating solutions to a STEP 4 on the Internet. The disadvantages of
problem and mapping their advan­tages and Use additional visual techniques – for using computer software are that it
disadvantages. A Mind Map can be used example, different colours for major slightly limits your freedom compared
in different stages of the design process, lines of thought, circles around words to working with hand drawings and
but is often used at the beginning of idea or thoughts that appear more than colours, is less personal, and might be
generation. Drafting a Mind Map helps you once, connecting lines between similar less suitable when sharing the Mind
to structure thoughts and ideas about the thoughts. Map with others.
problem, and connect them to each other. STEP 5 • Make it look good: use drawings,
However, a Mind Map can also be used in Study the Mind Map to see what colours, pictures, et cetera.
the problem analysis phase of a design relationships exist and what solutions • You can keep adding elements and
project. Mind Maps are also effective for are suggested. Reshape or restructure the thoughts to your Mind Map.
outlining presentations and reports. In fact, Mind Map if necessary. • Vary the type and spacing.
Mind Mapping can be used in a wide variety • Use short descriptions instead of long
of situations. Limitations of the method sentences.
• A Mind Map is a subjective view of a
How to use the method? project or subject – essentially it is a map
Mind Mapping is an excellent technique for of your mind. It is an effective tool when
developing your intuitive capacity. The main you are working on your own. It is also
branches of a Mind Map are the solutions. suitable for use in small teams, though
Each has sub-branches, presenting the pros the author may have to provide additional
and the cons of that particular solution. explanations.
Making Mind Maps is a skill that can be
trained. Because the Mind Map is supposed
to help you to analyse the problem, do not
limit yourself when writing everything down.
When working in groups, it is also helpful
to separately make Mind Maps and discuss
them together so that you are all on the
same page

Possible procedure
STEP 1
Write the name or description of the
theme in the centre of a piece of paper
and draw a circle around it.
STEP 2
Brainstorm each major facet of that theme,
placing your thoughts on lines drawn
outward from the central thought like
roads leaving a city.

The underground map of a city (in this case Moscow) resembles a mind map structure. This schematic way of representing REFERENCES & FURTHER READING: Buzan, T., 1996. The Mind Map Book: How to Use Radiant Thinking to Maximize Your Brain’s Un-
lines and stations was designed by Harry Beck for the London Underground in 1931. Over the years, the London railway tapped Potential. New York, NY: Plume. / Tassoul, M.*, 2006. Creative Facilitation: a Delft Approach. Delft: VSSD.
system had become too complex and stretched out to be visualised in a geographically correct map.