DropMind is impressive and versatile software that offers both online mind mapping and a downloadable desktop application.  The user interface is intuitive.  Images and hyperlinks can be included, as can icons and symbols from an extensive built-in collection.  Collaboration is facilitated, and a chat feature is included.

DropMind‘s mind maps can be printed, or they can be easily exported as either images or document outlines (.rtf format ) that open in most word processors, including MS Word.  I think this outline feature may be especially valuable to anyone who wants to move from a “brainstormed” mind map to a written document.  Mind maps can also be imported from either MindManager or Free Mind.

DropMind is definitely worth checking out by anyone who values the power of visual representation.  I love one of the tag lines that DropMind uses:  Realize the true potential of your amazing mind! I believe mind mapping can help all of us with this, but I suspect that it is especially helpful for those of us who struggle with text.

The first embedded screen shot below shows what a DropMind mind map can look like.    The second screen shot shows the same mind map as a document outline. The third shows Drop Mind’s user interface. (You can view the embedded screen shots in full screen mode by clicking on the button in the lower right corner.  If that doesn’t work for you, you can zoom in with the slider on the lower left corner and then use the scroll bars.)

XMind is an application that is intended for both personal and collaborative mind mapping.  It requires installation of a downloadable program that is available for Windows, Mac and Linux operating system.  The standalone program, however, syncs seamlessly with the XMind website for online sharing and collaboration.  Mind maps must be downloaded for editing, however, so real time collaboration is not an option.

XMind offers the user options that make it a versatile mind mapping  tool.  Hyperlinks and images are easy to add.  Files can also be added as attachments.  A library of useful “markers” is available.  Backgrounds can be customized.  Mind maps can be collapsed into outlines with the click of a button.  There is considerably more, but this should give some idea.  It is probably also worth noting that XMind uses its own browser when opening linked sites.

When uploaded to XMind, mind maps may be public, or both public and downloadable for collaboration.  If you wish to keep a mind map private, you must upgrade to the paid “pro” version.  Commenting is faciliated, and an embed code is available.  I’ve spent only a few minutes playing with XMind, but I’ve embedded the beginnings of a mind map below.