A mind map represents ideas around a central topic through branches and relationships. It makes knowledge visible, exposes gaps, and opens associations; it is not a final hierarchy.
After brainstorming, Lumen may see that most proposals focus on the setup screen and that information before setup or help during the journey have received little attention.
Build a useful map
- Put the challenge in the centre.
- Create first-level branches: user, steps, information, support, and constraints.
- Add evidence and ideas, marking what is known and what is assumed.
- Connect related elements.
- Review gaps and form a testable question.
Independent initial setup
├── User: unfamiliar terms, wants to publish quickly
├── Steps: choose service, set availability
├── Information: example, preparation list
├── Support: contextual help, save and continue
└── Constraints: required data, accessibilityExercise
Map a confusing task using people, steps, information, constraints, and opportunities. Mark assumptions that need checking.
Suggested answer
For a meeting that is hard to close, branches could include participants, preparation, decisions, time, and records. The assumption “everyone knows the goal” suggests sending a decision question beforehand.
Common mistakes
- Using long sentences in every branch.
- Presenting assumptions as facts.
- Treating the map as a document that never changes.
Conclusion
Mind maps organise exploration without reducing it too soon. Lumen has connected needs, ideas, and constraints; SCAMPER will now modify an existing proposal systematically.
Creativity Course: From Ideas to Solutions
Module 1: Understanding and Activating Creativity
- What creativity is and when it creates value
- Creativity in the professional environment
- Myths and realities about creativity
Module 2: How Creative Thinking Works
- The creative process as an iterative cycle
- Divergent, convergent, and lateral thinking
- Personal and environmental barriers
Module 3: Techniques for Exploring Alternatives
- Brainstorming: generating without judging
- Mind maps: visualising connections
- SCAMPER
- Lateral thinking: challenging assumptions
- Six hats: thinking from several perspectives
Module 4: From Challenge to Solution
- Identifying, defining, and reframing problems
- Generating alternatives for a defined challenge
- Evaluating and selecting ideas with criteria
- Prototyping, implementing, and learning
Module 5: Creativity Lab
- Guided workshop: collaborative brainstorming
- Guided workshop: building a mind map
- Guided workshop: redesigning with SCAMPER
- Case study: innovation in a technology company
- Case study: a creative solution in healthcare