What is »zzap«?
The brainstorming mode »zzap« allows you to rapidly enter a large amount of ideas; eminec MYmap arranges them in a temporary list. In the second stage, you categorize (»cluster«) the ideas and insert them into a normal map. »zzap« is great for creative meetings, too.
This feature is available in the »Premium« and »Academic« editions of eminec MYmap. If you currently use the »Standard«, »Educational« or »Basic« edition, you can upgrade to »Premium« on www.eminec.com. »zzap« is available in the free 30-day trial edition of eminec MYmap.
Workflow
To start a »zzap« session, create a new, empty map in eminec MYmap, and select the checkbox »brainstorming with ›zzap‹« in the »New map« window. It is not possible to use »zzap« in existing maps. As you would usually brainstorm when you work on a completely new subject, this does not impose a big limitation.
Step 1: Brainstorm
Enter your keywords into the text box »Step 1: Brainstorm«, and finish each item by pressing Enter. eminec MYmap adds the keyword as a special free text into your map's »Area for ›zzap‹ ideas«. eminec MYmap clears the text box so that you can start entering the next keyword right away.
When shown on a projector, e. g. on a creative meeting, the fonts will probably be displayed too small (at 100% zoom). It is a good idea to zoom in; 300% has proven to be right for this application. eminec MYmap will then automatically move the map as you enter new keywords so that the newest item and the ideas previously entered can be seen. You may also combine »zzap« mode with full screen mode. To do so, select the command »View« > »Full screen mode«, or click your map once and then press Tab.
Step 2: Categorize
When you have finished brainstorming, assign the ideas you have just entered to categories. To do so, add the categories by creating new main branches like you usually do in eminec MYmap, i. e. by repeatedly double-clicking the free area of your map and then entering the category description.
Then connect the keywords from your brainstorming session (step 1) to the categories. To do so, point to an idea and drag it with the left mouse button depressed to the desired category. Keywords that are already linked to categories are shown in different color, but they remain on their location next to the other keywords inside the »Area for ›zzap« ideas«. If you have accidentally misassigned an idea, just drag it to the right category. Drag unusable ideas to the Trashcan now (or anytime before).
You can create new categories and assign keywords to these categories interchangeably, i. e. you may start the assignment even if your set of categories has not yet been completed.
Step 3: Finalize
Click the »Done!« command button, and your keywords will appear as »normal« branches in your map. Do not forget to save your map if you have not done so already.