As MindGenius users will testify, the most basic
function of using the mapping method to capture initial thoughts on what
your objectives might be brings instant benefits in terms of being able to set
out initial thoughts, visualise the information and bring focus and clarity to
the ideas, information, knowledge, etc., being captured.
The “drill-down” effect of adding sub-branches to
any appropriate level provides a method of capturing depth of thinking and
inter-related thoughts / ideas relating to each subject matter – “thinking
things through thoroughly” as I like to sometimes call it.
Part of that initial idea generation and capture
would then invariably introduce the easy and quick functionality of the “drag
and drop” moving of branches into order or hierarchy.
The use of Map Explorer really helps with creating
and navigating large amounts of information and being able to both focus and
build on aspects or topics in digestible easily-understood segments.
The Notes pane also adds value to the mapping process
– in terms of personal objectives, this functionality lends itself to recording
important comments, highlights, factors, points of interest or reference
against each topic / objective.
A point worth mentioning at this stage is that, no matter
what your role or function is within the business or organisation, the
simplicity and ease of use at this basic level - of quickly capturing your
ideas and knowledge, structuring your ideas, and being able to easily navigate,
explore and visualise each and every aspect – brings wider collaborative
benefits of all-important focus and clarity to any exercise requiring clear and
concise planning and understanding (of which objective setting is only one).
Another point is that, regardless of which standards
or models you work to from a procedural or process point of view, MindGenius
allows you to quickly build up, shape and mould your objectives around any
requirement.
As an example, the sample Map below depicts the
common “S.M.A.R.T” model for setting objectives. Mapping and visualising each
of your objectives (and maybe even using the Notes to write up the actual
objective statements) provides a good visual platform to enable you to check
against the “S.M.A.R.T” criteria.
Once the objectives are drafted, agreed and
finalised, the maps usually become the “working documents”. One example of this could be using maps in a review
meeting (e.g. weekly, monthly or quarterly) to discuss progress with, and
performance in, each Objective. Using Categories (Analyze Ribbon) provides the
ability to score or rate each Branch (Objective).
The sample screenshot below shows the use of two
category sets (Performance and Numbers) only to show two types for
demonstration purposes. You will also notice the use of the Notes pane.
Remember also the use of Filtering (Analyze Ribbon
/ Quick Filter) to filter on any type of category applied, enabling quicker and
more intuitive analysis and interpretation of the map / data.
One practical use for tracking and managing
progress over a long period (e.g. months or a reporting year) is to apply a
performance rating to each branch (Objective) at each review. Then at the end
of the reporting period copying and pasting them into one “Master” map will
allow you to examine and analyse the overall performance pattern over the whole
period.
There are of course many other uses and
applications of MindGenius in formulating, communicating, reviewing and
managing personal objectives, I hope to cover those in future Newsletters, but
if you have any enquiries about this aspect of MindGenius use that you’re not
sure of or would like further help with, please email me at info@mindgenius.com.
Also, we’d love to hear from you if you would like
to share how YOU use and apply MindGenius for managing objectives (or in fact
any other use!) simply pop us an email, attaching the relevant map(s) if you
can.
Remember also, MindGenius Ltd provide an extensive
range of tailored training and consultancy solutions for individuals and teams.
If you need to gain a better understanding of how MindGenius can improve your
current processes for managing objectives, simply contact your Account Manager
or email info@mindgenius.com and we can discuss your options.
Author Bio: Jamie MacDonald, Head of Client Development at MindGenius. Jamie is a highly experienced trainer, facilitator and coach with over 20 years’ experience in training, development, HRM and business improvement.
