# What is germ.io used for? What is germ.io used for? ##### Post Metadata

# So, germ.io is like a Mind Mapping tool? Nope. germ.io is not a mind map. But boy, does it look a lot like one (especially when you're thinking up a creative idea and planning a project around it)! Mindmaps don't constrain structure: The biggest problem with mind maps is all those fuzzy connections. While that works great for something like building a sitemap of a website, when it comes to solving a problem or building an idea, you want to focus on one idea at a time and break it down. The greatest ability in a mindmap (to connect random/ disparate nodes together) is it's biggest problems. germ.io solves this by forcing you to think through just one node (or idea) at a time, and break that down hierarchically. That way, every node has just one parent - one bigger idea that broke down to give you your current node. There is always context at every step. Mindmaps constrain content: The bigger problem though is Mindmaps inherently are not about filling up details into each node. When you come up with an idea, you just want a place to pour down your thoughts in as much detail as you want - not worry about the structure and connections yet. germ.io offers a free-form editing experience so you can throw down your idea and explain it the way you want. germ is built on the theory of MECE - progressively breaking an idea in Mutually Exclusive, Collectively Exhaustive sub-parts. As a result, once you break down your idea, making your germs actionable and building an execution plan from it becomes easy. ##### Post Metadata - Net upvotes: 1

# I don't really have an idea yet. What should I do? It's alright if you don't have a solid idea yet. After all, we're sure even Einstein woke up to nothing more than breakfast waffles and a video game on a few lazy Sunday mornings! germ.io is designed to just follow the way you think. That's why we've got ready-to-go templates around starting up, product management, marketing, growth hacking and more. When you're stuck and need a fresh new idea, just go ahead and pick a Template that best matches your problem. Customize it, contextualize it, and watch as your ideas pour into the beautiful blueprint each template gives you. ##### Post Metadata - Net upvotes: 1

# What kind of ideas should I be entering in germ? Anything! It could be your next startup idea, a marketing campaign idea that you've been thinking about, an event or a wedding - any complex project where your requirements are hazy, and you need to wrap your head around to get moving. If you're already working on an awesome project or idea, that's great. You can jump in to germ.io, and start building your project plans right away. If you don't have a project on your plate yet, that's even better. With pre-built templates around starting up, product management, marketing and more in germ.io, you can get inspired, pick up the ideas that make sense to you, get your thoughts flowing, and build a solid project plan in one click! ##### Post Metadata - Net upvotes: 1