Description
MindMeister is the first tool from MeisterLabs, developed by Michael Hollauf and Till Vollmer in 2006. It is a completely web-based mind mapping software that runs in any standard web browser. MindMeister and is dedicated to online mind mapping, allowing students to visualize and share their ideas. MindMeister enables the user to conduct the brainstorming sessions, take notes, plan projects. With this tool, students can conduct interactive sessions with their colleagues and come up with new ideas. MindMeister is a product offered in the SaaS model (Software as a Service), which distinguishes the program on the mind mapping market, where most programs are installed on a computer hard drive. MindMeister works only online and requires a stable network connection, preferably with a high-speed connection, to work.
Created mind maps are saved automatically in the cloud, online, and can be accessed from anywhere, as long as there is a connection to the internet. Aside from the web app, MindMeister also offers native mobile apps for iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch and Android devices, which means it is possible to present created maps also using mobile devices. MindMeister enables live co-creation of mind maps by multiple users. The created mind maps can be shared on social media. The other option is publishing the maps on public channel on the producer's servers. Mind map recipients have in this case the opportunity to comment on created mind maps, and the authors can interact with them. In addition to that, the view counter for created mind maps is available to verify the number of views.
MindMeister is offered for free as well as in paid plan. Using the MindMeister in the freemium model (Basic), in which the user sets up a free account, allows to have access to limited options. If this is not enough, it is possible to purchase a monthly or annual subscription. MindMeister offers three packages at different prices – Personal, Pro and Business. The difference between features available in free and paid plan presents the Figure 33.
