Mac Mind Mapping Review Objectives
Jan 17, 2019 The Best Mind Mapping Software. Mind mapping solutions help you organize group ideas and turn them into an actionable plan. Part creative aid, part project management tool, mind. Jul 13, 2020 Owned by MatchWare, MindView is a charting and graphics tool that helps you create project plans, mind maps, flow charts, and various other customizable charts.Unlike similar tools, it comes as both a browser extension as well as downloadable standalone software for Windows and Mac.
If you have been spending time researching, trying to figure out which Mac mind mapping software is the right tool for you, you are not alone. With so many options available like online programs, desktop programs and mobile apps, it can be tricky to decide which is the right option for you. Don’t worry, we are here to help. In this Mac mind mapping software review, our team evaluated the leading professional desktop Mac mind mapping software tools to see which are the most useful and if it's worth your money to invest. Although there are some OK free programs available, they lack the functionality that the paid-for-programs offer, so for this evaluation, we chose to evaluate MindManager 11 for Mac, MindView 7 for Mac, and Novamind for Mac.
Rating Scale
| Not Available: 0 | Worst in Class: 1 | Below Average: 2 | Average: 3 | Above Average: 4 | Best in Class: 5 |
| MindView | MindManager | NovaMind | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total | Score: 91 | Score: 62 | Score: 56 |
| Map Formats | |||
| Mind Map | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Left/Right | 4 | 4 | 2 |
| Right/Left | 5 | 0 | 2 |
| Top Down (WBS) | 4 | 4 | 2 |
| Organizational Chart | 5 | 4 | 2 |
| Outline | 5 | 1 | 1 |
| Gantt | 5 | 0 | 0 |
| Timeline | 0 | 0 | 3 |
| Microsoft Integration | |||
| MS Word | |||
| Export | 5 | 3 | 4 |
| Import | 4 | 2 | 0 |
| MS PowerPoint | |||
| Export | 5 | 3 | 3 |
| Import | 3 | 0 | 0 |
| MS Project | |||
| Export | 5 | 0 | 3 |
| Import | 3 | 0 | 0 |
| Additional Exports | |||
| 3 | 3 | 3 | |
| RTF | 4 | 3 | 0 |
| HTML | 3 | 3 | 0 |
| Mind Map Features | |||
| Attach Notes | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Attachments/Hyperlinks | 4 | 3 | 3 |
| Visual Customization | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Multi-Mapping | 2 | 4 | 4 |
| Relationship Lines | 4 | 3 | 4 |
| Filter | 3 | 5 | 2 |
| Presentation Mode | 2 | 4 | 5 |
| Focus View / Branch Focus | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Total | Score: 91 | Score: 62 | Score: 56 |
| MindView | MindManager | NovaMind | |
First off, how easy is it to make a mind map, because let’s face it if you can't use the software easily than what’s the point, right?
We found that all three Mac mind mapping software tools were fairly easy to work with because they all seem to share Mac OS best practices. Since we are comfortable with other Mac OS software, these tools made us feel right at home.
Just like with any software, it takes a few tries to figure out the interface, and what is what, but after we built out a few branches of the mind map, we were up and running in all three tools. With MindManager, it took a little while longer to get our map going, whereas MindView and Novamind were more intuitive. We loved the keyboard shortcuts in all three tools, they really speed things up. In contrast, working with online tools was a very different experience, which was expected since with most online tools, it takes a while to find your bearings.
Some Mac mind mapping software tools can be overloaded with features, making their interface seem overwhelming. MindView, however, has solved this problem with a simplified user interface that was packed full of useful features, well organized in a logical and customizable menu structure.
Best Free Mind Mapping Software
In the end, making a mind map in Novamind and MindView was pretty similar, kind of like comparing Ford vs. Chevy. If you like more features and options in your interface, however, MindManager is the choice for you. If you like a simplified user interface, then go with MindView.
But we didn’t stop there...
Let's dig into the features a little deeper. Being able to attach files is very useful in Mac mind mapping software. When attaching files, MindView, MindManager and Novamind were similar and intuitive, but viewing the attachments was what stood out for us. MindView has a quick-click view option that is activated by simply hovering the branch attachment icon and clicking your attachment. MindManager, however, forced us to first open the Inspector, find the attachment and then double-click to view it. A few too many clicks in our opinion… Don’t worry, it wasn’t too difficult to figure out, but we preferred the ease of use in MindView above the other three Mac mind mapping software tools.
I hope we still have your attention, because here comes the section that all you Mind Mapping die-hards have been waiting for. Not to worry though, we will keep it brief!
In all three applications, you can add images and colors to your mind map, change line colors, branch colors, branch shapes, line thickness, and branch order. Also, all three Mac mind mapping software tools enable you to easily add images, icons, and colors to the branches at any level, not just the main branches, which we found very helpful.
So far, we have focused only on mind maps, but not all of us think non-linearly as in a mind map. Some may want to overview data in a linear layout like an outline. And this brings us to the different ways you can communicate data. MindView made it very easy to swap back and forth between the various views and had the most options, whereas MindManager and Novamind only offered a mind map and outline view. If you’re wondering about a Gantt or timeline view, sit tight, we discuss these two views later.
Since there were plenty of ways to customize the maps in all three Mac mind mapping software programs, and all three were basically the same, let's move on to something more interesting… something that really separated the pack… MS Office integration.
Office Integration
When it came to integration, free and online mind mapping tools just couldn’t compete with the desktop applications in this category. What makes the desktop applications true productivity tools is the ability to transfer data out of the mind mapping software without having to re-create the information.
So if all desktop mind mapping software is so great, what separates these three Mac mind mapping software applications in this category? MindView and Novamind both had exports to Word, PowerPoint, and for you PM’s out there, MS Project. MindManager was limited to Word only. So what’s the bottom line?
MindView had the edge in this category for two reasons. First, MindView uses a template-driven export system, so there is no hassle to the export and the final product is “meeting-ready“. Second, MindView is “bi-directional” meaning you can export to and import from MS Office. We feel that this helped tip the scales in MindView’s favor by making it more of a productivity tool than the others, giving us maximum results with minimal effort.
We gave an honorable mention in this section to Novamind. Their exports were much better and more 'polished' than MindManager’s and had a few more options in the export wizard.
Project management is another category where the online and app options just can't compete. We came to realize that the online tools weren’t mature enough, and the apps couldn’t handle the size of the data. As a result, when referring to mind mapping and project management, desktop software is the only real option.
For a beginner project manager who needs an easy-to-use tool to replace the 'white board' exercise and move that data to a Gantt chart, MindView is the best choice. Though all three programs let you include task information on the branches, only MindView had a fully functional Gantt Chart view.
We actually liked the ease of use of Novamind over MindManager. The one feature that Novamind had that MindManager didn’t was an export to MS Project, but for those that don’t want to use Project, this feature was not really that useful.
Once again, we feel MindView has beat out its competition in this category too. If you're a PMP or need an alternative to MS Project, your only choice is MindView. MindView even surprised our project managers with the level of sophistication of its Gantt chart. MindView gave you the ability to create predecessors, select effort-driven tasks, resource calendars and export to Excel or MS Project, just to name a few of its possibilities. Plus their timeline view was pretty sweet, much more robust than Novamind’s. So if you are looking for a serious project management tool, give MindView a try, you won’t be disappointed. If not, have a go with Novamind or MindManager as lighter alternatives.
Conclusion
So what is the conclusion of this Mac mind mapping software review, do we have a clear winner? In just making a mind map… not really… We think all 3 are solid options over the alternatives (online, apps and free software). The real takeaway that we discovered during this review is that it's not just about making the mind map. It's more about what you do after you make the mind map. How do you share the data, or manipulate the data without recreating it? In this fast-paced world we live in, it’s all about productivity and time savings. As a result, we found that MindView isn’t just a mind mapping tool, it is a true productivity tool.
| MindView | MindManager | Novamind |
|---|---|---|
| Score: 91 | Score: 62 | Score: 56 |
Mind mapping tools are designed to represent the relationships between ideas and concepts graphically. These tools are visual thinking program which helps you to analyze, synthesize, recall, and generate new ideas in an effective way.
Following is a handpicked list of Top Mind Mapping Tools. The list contains Free as well commercial tools with popular features and latest download links.
1) Xmind
Xmind is an integrated platform for brainstorming and mind mapping app. It is designed to generate ideas and inspire creativity. This software supports tree diagrams, fishbone diagrams, spreadsheets, etc.
Features:
- It offers Fishbone Chart, Matrix, Timeline, Org Chart
- Using a combination of different structures.
- You can make any graphic you want.
- Xmind allows you to access graphic anytime and anywhere.
- Export and share to Word, PDF, Excel, PPT, Project, FreeMind
Download Link:https://www.xmind.net/
2) Creately
Creately is an online mind mapping software. It offers an intuitive canvas with an extensive mind mapping shape library and 1000s of pre-made templates for teams to work together on capturing, organizing and expanding their thoughts during meetings, brainstorming sessions, etc.
- Built-in video conferencing
- Real-time mouse tracking
- Google Drive, Slack and Confluence integrations
- 50+ diagram types with standard shape libraries
- Export diagrams as PNG, JPEG, PDF, & SVG
- View Only or Edit enabled links to share diagrams for reviews or edits
- Built-in commenting to capture ideas, suggestions and change requests from collaborators
- Built-in Google image search to browse the internet for needed graphics
3) Mindjet
Mindjet MindManager is a software that allows you to organize your day, run your project, and manage your team. Mindjet offers you to build an innovative program using mind mapping, big data analytics, and game mechanics to create the best ideas and operationalize them in the market.
Features:
- It allows you to quickly capture information and idea.
- Track priorities, deliverables, resources, dependencies, and due dates.
- It offers you to integrate the information on a unified dashboard.
- Manage everything from brainstorming to planning.
Download Link:https://www.mindjet.com/mindmanager/
4) Mindomo
Mindomo is an online collaborative concept mapping, mind mapping, and outlining software. With this software, you can achieve your goals by visually mapping ideas, plans, and interests.
Features:
- Unregistered users can see the maps shared by register users.
- Allows you to map concepts by connecting dots.
- Provides a way to create a blueprint of your plans.
- You can keep the team engage with collaborative online Gantt charts.
Download Link:https://www.mindomo.com/
5) Mindmup
Mindmup is a software written in JavaScript and can run in HTML5 browsers. It is used to create concept maps and argument maps. Using Mindmup, you can make unlimited mind maps and store them online.
Features:
- The software automatically adds contextual information as well as images.
- Frictionless interface helps you focus
- Enable you to add longer text, spreadsheets, and videos to your mind maps.
- Allows you to save to Google Drive and manage using Google Apps
- You can add icons and images to map.
- User can control sharing settings.
Download Link:https://www.mindmup.com/
6) Coggle
Coggle is a browser-based mind mapper which produces hierarchically structured documents. This contrasts with many other collaborative applications like Google Docs, that provide either a spreadsheet or text document format.
Features:
- Enable you to produce beautiful notes quickly and easily.
- Offers real-time collaboration
- User can upload unlimited Image
- Add images text, labels, and annotate parts of your mind map
- Anyone can make changes in the diagram without any login.
Download Link:https://coggle.it/
7) TheBrain
TheBrain is a mind mapping tool from TheBrain Technologies. It uses a dynamic graphical interface which maps network relationships. It allows you to capture all that intelligence when you need it.
Features:
- Offer an instant way to share documents, web pages, notes, and images.
- Control tasks and open loops ideas in your brain.
- Sync your idea from your desktop, mobile device, or web browser anytime.
Download Link:https://www.thebrain.com/
8) Venngage
Venngage the perfect way to visualize any topic that has many steps, nodes, or subsections. Create an engaging mind map with an online mind map maker.
Features:
- Allows you to color-coded points
- You can choose a font which is both readable and aesthetically pleasing.
- It offers professionally designed mind map templates to create maps easily.
- Put countless ideas or points.
- Download mind map as a PNG or PDF file and share it to social media websites.
Download Link:https://venngage.com/features/mind-map-maker
9) Drakonhub
DrakonHub is an online diagramming tool which enables to create clear flowcharts, checklists, and mind maps. It is designed for, business user, managers, and software developers to create visual business processes. DrakonHub supports tablet and real time editing.
Features:
- It follows ergonomic standards which rid diagrams of the visual noise.
- Divide the diagram into various logical parts with the image of animal, object, or person.
- It allows you to arrange your mind maps in a specific order.
- You can add the boxes, and DrakonHub will automatically draw the lines.
Download Link:https://drakonhub.com/
10) Mindmeister
MindMeister is a mind mapping tool that allows users to visualize, share, and present their thoughts. This collaborative application offers impressive graphical techniques to help users brainstorm, take notes, create project plans, and perform other tasks online.
Features:
- MindMeister enables you to share your mind maps with as many people as you want and collaborate with them in real-time.
- It has a built-in presentation mode that helps you to turn mind maps into dynamic slideshows in less time.
- It integrates with the intuitive online task as well as a project management app for groups.
- People in different places can work together and solve issues in real-time.
Download Link:https://www.mindmeister.com/
11) Padlet
Padlet is an online blank board that can be used by invited people to collaborate in collecting ideas and sharing information. It is a tool for creating beautiful boards, documents, and webpages that are easy to read.
Features:
- It lets you invite users to add content, comment, and make changes in real-time.
- This software enables you to add photos, documents, weblinks, videos, and music.
- Allows you to select a readymade template or go with a blank slate.
- It enables you to share padlet with colleagues, classmates, friends, and family.
Download Link:https://padlet.com/
12) Bubbl
Bubbl.us is an online brainstorming application. This browser-based tool is good for project planning brainstorming and collaboration. The tool uses Macromedia Flash that can be accessed via browser to eliminate the need of installing any software.
Features:
- It is an entirely web-based application.
- It lets you save your mind map as an image
- You can create a colorful and engaging mind map
- The software helps you to understand better using presentation
Download Link:https://bubbl.us/
13) Ayoa
Ayoa is a tool for generating the idea and collaborating with others. It is a mind mapping, task management, and chat application that allows individuals and teams to create unique mind maps quickly.
Features:
- It enables you to adjust the appearance of your branches and connectors.
- You can add files and images directly onto your branches.
- It helps you to convert your ideas into tasks.
- You can add emoji reactions to branches
- It offers a way to organize your map by placing categories around branches.
Download Link:https://www.ayoa.com/
14) Smartdraw
SmartDraw is a diagram tool for making and organizing flowcharts, mind maps, project charts, and other business visuals. This tool is used by organizations and companies in order to document processes, manage plan strategies as well as projects.
Features:
- SmartDraw is easier to use than the standard drawing tools included in G Suite and Microsoft Office.
- It can be run on any tablet or computer.
- It has thousands of templates and symbols to choose from.
- The software lets you create chart-based and schematic diagrams.
- The software contains more than built-in 4,000 templates which can be used for making 70 different types of diagrams.
Download Link:https://www.smartdraw.com/
15) Visio
Microsoft Visio is a diagramming tool which allows you to create simple as well as complex diagrams according to your business needs. Visio also enables you to create detailed organization charts, floor plans, pivot diagrams, etc.
Best Mind Map Software For Mac
Features:
- Enable you to work on a variety of diagrams at the same time.
- VISIO Provides diagramming capabilities to prepare various business engineering Software, and Database Architecture easily.
- The tool allows you to capture the information in ways that are valuable for you and your business.
- The web version of Visio helps you to work together on diagrams from any web browser.
- Provide support for creating varieties of diagramming shapes.
Download Link:https://products.office.com/en-ca/visio/flowchart-software/?r=mms
16) Miro
Map Making Software Mac
Miro is a collaboration tool that allows teams to centralize their cross-functional teamwork. Miro is a quick and easy way for a team to capture, manage, map user stories wireframe, plan script, and structure their thoughts.
Features:
- It provides real-time collaborative drawing
- The tool has an infinite virtual whiteboard to complete any visual task like agile planning, project management, and design iteration.
- Built-in comments, video, chat, and @mentions for seamless communication.
- Integrate more than 20 tools, including InVision, Confluence, Slack, Google Drive, Jira, and more.
Download Link:https://miro.com/
17) LucidChart
Mind Map Software Mac Reviews
Lucidchart is HTML-5 based UML tool which also offers real-time collaboration capabilities. It allows you to create a simple flowchart to complex technical diagrams. It runs on browser having HTML5. The tool does not require updates of any third party tools or plugins.
Features:
- Works with your team on any device across various platforms
- Allows you to connect live data with your diagrams or import data to automatically build organization charts
- Helps you to increase security and easily manage user accounts
- It is Integrated seamlessly with MS office, G suite, Atlassian, etc.
Download Link:https://www.lucidchart.com/
18) Cacoo
Mac Os Mind Map
Cacoo is an online diagram and collaboration application for businesses to create flowcharts, wireframes, sitemaps, mind maps, and mockups.
Features:
- Let everyone to add their ideas while working with images, data, notes, or charts.
- You can draw a diagram from scratch or use readymade templates for inspiration.
- Integrate with Google Docs, Google Drive, AWS, Typetalk, Visio, Dropbox, and Slack.
Download Link:https://cacoo.com/