I’ve often wondered when the day will come when your thoughts and ideas can immediately be transcribed and organized. However, until we can perform the Vulcan Mind Meld, here may be the next best thing: Mind-Mapping and Concept-Mapping software. Mind maps let you make a web of ideas and link files to them. Great for brainstorming or doing a story web. Concept mapping is similar, but the construct is more hierarchical: sort of like an outline. This would be ideal for site maps and project management. You can link graphics and files to the branches. There’s even online reviews, such as the Mind-Mapping Software Blog, where today posts a mind-mapping conference in Mooristown, NJ. Or visit The Mind Mapping Blog

Most provide trial downloads or subscriptions. Many offer online collaboration. I am checking out online mind-mapping at the MindMeister site (see illustration to the right). I’m not sure it provides the hierarchical configuration, which is what I really prefer in a brain-storm and for getting too many ideas in the right place. I’ve downloaded a desktop program FreeMind; oddly-enough you’ll find the download link software of this java-based software on Wikipedia, which I’m not sure is quite kosher: but it is open-source.