Most startups are bootstrapped, the budget is low, there is no funding, startups need some support and excellent tools to run the show. The team may be working at one place or the team is spread across the globe, but the team needs to brainstorm. Brainstorming can be fun. Listing few resources which a startup or entrepreneurs can use for brainstorming.
Bubbl.us
Bubbl.us is an interesting tool which is useful to take notes, brainstorm and organize new ideas, collaborate, and capture thoughts. It allows you to avoid distraction by focusing on task, to collaborate and share with friends, families, team and social media. Essentially no hassle of downloading any app, works on mobile and desktop. You can use the basic plan to explore and later subscribe for at $4.91/month, $59 billed annually.
Miro
Miro offers the quickest, easiest way for teams to capture, organize and visualize thoughts, solutions, ideas across the team. Other than brainstorming, it can be used for project planning, creating organizational charts and sales strategies. It runs on all devices: mobile, tablet, desktop or interactive display.
Coggle
Coggle is a tool that lets one create and share intricate mind maps. From complex brainstorming to simple ideation, it provides a space where one can build and download diagrams so the ideas will always be accessible and actionable. Some notable features are real time collaboration, unlimited image uploads, powerful flowcharting and multiple starting points. No download or installation involved. It is completely free, if you wish privacy and unlimited private diagrams, you pay $5 per month or for teams $8 per member per month.
Freeplane
Freeplane is an open-source application for mind mapping and navigating the mapped information. It allows freely position, order, classify, group, or connect any node. Style the map using shapes, colors, and edge type. One can structure nodes in terms of content, such as text, formula, icon, image, hyperlink, or even at a hierarchical level. Password protection for the mind maps is one of the features, besides sharing, collaboration and publishing. Only disadvantage is to be downloaded and installed.
FigJam
FigJam is an online whiteboard which you can try to ideate, share, discover and build ideas together. It allows one to map user flows, processes, systems, can be used for designing, team meetings, diagramming, play, mood boards. It is easy to use, intuitive and you plugin widgets. It is free for a starter, otherwise $12 per month.
LucidChart
LucidChart is the intelligent diagramming application that brings teams together to make better decisions and build the future. Create business process maps, Stay aligned on user flows, Scale cloud infrastructure, Plan and organize scrum teams, Map data flows. You can start for free or pay $7.95 with option of free trial.
Mind42
Mind42 is a tool which allows one to build simple diagrams in the web browser and share them with others. Very basic functionality—good for high-level brainstorming. Use it to create todo lists, brainstorm ideas, organize events Mind42 is completely free (ad supported). Mind maps are private by default but there is an option to share.
Wisemapping
Wisemapping offers a free mind mapping tool for teams and individuals. It offers features like linking mind map with documents, or insert the maps in web pages and blogs. Topic Creator & Editor, Drag-and-Drop Function, Text and Style Formatting, Icons, Notes,HTTP Links, Zoom In & Out, Autosave, History Recovery, Personal Workspace, Collaborative Workspace, Maps Import & Export.
