🧠 Mapped by Meister: Global Supply Chain (Manufacturing)

Miša Hennin

Hi!

Let's take a look at how manufacturers can use mind maps to oversee distribution from production to delivery 🚚.

Logistics-loving @Nick Willemsens created this mind map template to show team leads how MindMeister can be implemented for supervising complex operations 🤯. Though it's normally assumed to be an ideation💡 tool, MindMeister has far more scope. In fact, its flexibility and features make it ideal for planning projects such as distribution in a wide range of industries.

This particular template gives a visual overview of all the transport routes the manufacturer's goods will follow in order to arrive at the final customer/ end user. Damages and delays are noted in the plan as they happen.

Explore Nick's map here or through the embed below. We'd love to hear your thoughts, questions and feedback - and of course, see any similar maps you've created. Please feel free to share below ❤️! For a more in-depth look at Nick's mind map, read on!

Using a Color Legend for Further Details

Nick created a color-coded key to help users understand processes and logistics quickly.

Chosen topics have a filled shape (i.e. background color). These colors correspond to the color legend on the left. The color legend indicates the middle stations through which the goods have to pass on their way to the final customer. You can easily make a color legend by adding a floating topic to your mind map.

The key is simple and intuitive to follow. From a glance, team members will know that: The goods in Australia are distributed from a center in Adelaide. They then move directly to customers in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. However, some of the goods go through the Port of Adelaide to a distribution center in New Zealand, from where they are transported to customers in Christchurch and Wellington.

Documenting Delays with Connections

Overall, Nick's template provides the ideal mapped-out route for distribution. However, unforeseen delays can occur and it's important to note these as they happen to ensure stakeholders are informed. Nick has used connections to show where damages have occurred on route and goods have been transported to designated repair stations. After repair, the goods return to the general supply chain flow to reach their destination. 

Structuring the Distribution Route

Nick structured the mind map by production site location. In this template, the company has four production sites, each of which forms its own topic. Each branch has an image of the respective country's flag, making the mind map both visual and striking. More importantly, the flags direct team members to relevant information quickly. 

Best,

Miša