Example Reflection – Mind Mapping

Challenge & Selection

Mind Mapping is a powerful and a very useful tool that is applicable in various situations of our
life, it is the tool that I applied almost all the time. This was the first tool that I ever used and
have been using ever since, to achieve an understanding of a problem space and possible
outcomes and solutions to that problem among a diverse group of stakeholders and tackelling
all possible ends.
I am a student and this tool has helped me a lot as it helps me think in creative ways and helps
me find solutions to a problem much quickly and more efficiently and importantly more creatively
It even helps in studying complex problems as I can break the problem into several tiny
components and map it on a paper and link it making it a chain of events rather than one giant
task which is far more efficient

Application

Mind maps are diagrams for visually representing and connecting all the information regarding
a certain theme. In problem definition, designers use mind maps for identifying
the issues influencing an innovation challenge and illustrating how such issues relate to each
other.The resulting map offers a thorough overview that facilitates holistic associations for
reframing an innovation challenge. So let us take an example of deconstructing the innovation
challenge of developing a new website for a public transportation service. First in a blank space
at the center draw the problem statement that is public transport and branch out different
problems and attributes from it and make them into different nodes such as bus,train,car(if own
car or not),travel agency,passenger(if they are excited or not),ticket,booking system,etc. And
from these derive other sub attributes such as if tickets are cancelled or available if hotels are
far or near etc and connect all these with lines to create a web or a map. This would help in
easily analysing all the required points to build a solution and brainstorming what features to put
and which approach to take.

Insight & Approach

The process of developing a mind map should be loose and unstructured to stimulate holistic
thinking in identifying relevant factors affecting the problems. However, these steps can be
followed
1. Write the name or description of the innovation problem (or subproblem) in the middle of a
paper or any other drawing area.
2. Brainstorm on the major elements/factors/drivers of the innovation challenge, placing the
thoughts on departing branches. Design professionals facilitate this step by keeping people
engaged in brainstorming and by maintaining the organic structure of the mind map.
3. Identify and emphasize connections (e.g., by using colors, shapes, and connectors).
4. Reflect on the resulting mind map to trigger new connections and problem reframing.