Custom Map Structure?

[Michael Glenn]

Hello. I'd like to create a mind map with multiple independant topics linked along a vertical axis that runs straight through the center of each main topic. Each topic would then function independantly using the normal map structures. I guess this would basically be combining multiple mind maps into one. The vertical axis itself can be purely visual (doesn't have to be functional), as long as all main topics are on the same level in the hierarchy.

 

Floating topics seemed to be the obvious solution, but when I try to line them up on a vertical axis, XMind keeps wanting to connect them in a descending hierarchy off the central topic. Any suggestions on how to do this or is it even possible in XMind?

[Michael Glenn]

Update: I got pretty close to what I want using tree-right structure on the central topic and logic-chart-right for nine subtopics. This should be sufficient for now. The map would have more room for 2nd level subtopics if it were possible to stagger tree-right/tree-left, but I haven't found a way to do that (yet).

[Fernando Bresslau]

Try holding the shift key while dragging your floating topics ;)
See what happens.

Cheers,
Fernando

[Michael Glenn]

Fernando, thanks for that tip! Totally solves the problem of floating topics trying to attach themselves.

 

This leaves only one major and one minor issue to be resolved: 

 

(1) As stated earlier, there is no way to attach multiple central/floating topics to each other at the same level in the hierarchy and there doesn't appear to be any way to visually emulate this, e.g. by inserting a floating image--in this case, a vertical line--to the design surface and move it behind the floating topics. Would be nice features, but I can understand if these actions are considered outside the scope of XMind's basic design.

 

(2) There's a nice command to align the centers of multiple selected floating topics, but no command to make the space between them equal, so this has to be done as best as possible by hand.

 

Meanwhile, the tree structure I mentioned previously is working pretty well, so I'm able to make due with existing functionality. Fantastic application!

[Guy]

Yes, Floating topic does work... initially.
The problem you will experience is that you may move the floating
Topic, or another topic to close to each other and they will link
together unexpectedly.
The "Float" can only be controlled by selecting the Floating Object
while using the Shift key. It is very easy to forget this action,
which will often result in unexpected links that you must then fix.

I would actually call the implementation of FLOAT a BUG in XMind.
First: The rules are not well documented.
Second: "Floating" is NOT a property of the Object, It is controlled
by an "action" (select & Shift). An objects FLOAT characteristic is
determined by the spatial arrangement (closeness) of objects, and the
users "action" of a move while depressing the shift key. Get too
close to another object without using the "Select & Shift" key
combination and they link.

FLOAT should be implemented as a property of the object so that once
set to "float" the object will not link to another object until the
user turns the property OFF, or performs an explicit link operation.

In addition there should be a property to "fix" the location of an
object. This property would allow user control of the object
placement in the map. If set to "fixed" the object would be placed at
a fixed location and would not allow the map to automatically move an
object. The object would be "fixed" at a location until manually
moved or the property is set to "off".

[Michael Glenn]

Guy, I agree totally. Float and fixed implemented as properties would be an excellent enhancement.