Beyond concept analysis: Uses of mind mapping software for visual representation, management, and analysis of diverse digital data

Abstract

Mind mapping is a visual-spatial method of representing information using nodes (information segments) to show ideas and connecting lines to define relationships between content. As a critical thinking tool, it is applicable to a range of research activities, including information management, project development, and data analysis. The purposes of this manuscript are to describe the use of mapping for qualitative data analysis, provide step-by-step instructions of how to construct mind maps, and present examples specific to qualitative data analysis. An example from a recent study of patient and provider perceptions of virtual visits demonstrates the use of Xmind in conjunction with Atlas.ti for qualitative content analysis of open-ended survey data.While coding in Atlas.ti, we used Xmind to develop dynamic memos, code networks, and themes. The memo map served to identify common coding patterns and informed subsequent coding stages. After coding in Atlas.ti, the entire code list was imported into a new map in Xmind and iteratively organized to identify conceptual groupings, similarities/differences, and key ideas. Themes were identified through pattern coding and refining code networks within the Xmind map. Map iterations formed part of the analytic trail and facilitated peer-to-peer discussions. The final map served as the model for publication. The use of mind mapping enhanced the rigor, credibility, and transparency of analyses and facilitated peer-to-peer communication. This technique can be used to manage diverse content (documents, audio/video file, image, web links, and personal notes) and thus has great potential to contribute to a variety of data management tasks. K E Y W O R D Scritical thinking, data analysis, mind mapping, qualitative

A mixed‐methods analysis of younger adults' perceptions of asthma, self‐management, and preventive care: "This isn't helping me none"

“…39,40 Lastly, data and codes were mapped using Xmind to develop thematic patterns and synthesized to define key concepts. 41,42 Steps to enhance validity were the following: Participants discussed using non-pharmacologic symptom management strategies five times as often as using asthma medications (Table 2). Non-pharmacologic strategies included: (1) getting a drink;…”

Going mobile with primary care: smartphone-telemedicine for asthma management in young urban adults (TEAMS)

“…Traditional content analysis techniques were used to analyze data for patterns of symptoms and self-management responses (37). Descriptive coding was used to explore perceptions and experiences with the TEAMS program (provider and patient), and pattern coding was used to further develop the themes and clarify concepts (38). Structured memos, member checking, and peer-debriefing were used to maximize validity (39).…”

Understanding Digital Health Technologies Using Mind Maps

“…Concept maps and mind maps are visualization formats used to foster critical thinking skills, problem solving, project development, knowledge sharing, and data analysis related to a variety of topics across professions (Eppler, 2006; Mammen & Mammen, 2018). Although these terms are often used interchangeably, a concept map typically conveys relationships between a key concept or topic and subconcepts in a top‐down fashion, whereas a mind map is more asymmetrical or radial, with semantic connections between the content (Eppler, 2006).…”

“…Mind maps may include graphics, color coding, links to policies and procedures, forms, articles, or other relevant resources to support an understanding of the concepts and associated items. Both formats are easy to learn and apply, encourage creativity, and provide a visual representation of the interconnectedness between concepts and ideas (Eppler, 2006; Mammen & Mammen, 2018).…”

“…In the healthcare setting, concept maps and mind maps were useful in determining requirements for EHR implementation needs (Joukes, Cornet, de Bruijne, & De Keizer, 2016; Kabukye, de Keizer, & Cornet, 2020); visualizing themes for big data research (Gu, Li, Li, & Liang, 2017); evaluating mobile applications for consumer use (Lee & Kim, 2018); determining organizational actions related to providing patient‐centered care (Ogden, Barr, & Greenfield, 2017); creating a health equity toolkit (Pauly et al, 2018); and creating a method to visualize and manage digital data (Mammen & Mammen, 2018). Focus groups, interviews, surveys, and brainstorming were common methods used to solicit content for concept maps in all the studies.…”