Mind Mapping in Software Engineering

Toyer Mamoojee (Head of QA and Test Engineering) shares how mind mapping continues to evolve as a powerful tool in his work as a senior leader in software engineering. Moving well beyond QA, Toyer demonstrates how he uses maps to communicate across global teams, structure solutions, design architectures, plan strategically, and support testing processes. This session offers a practical, real-world perspective on how mapping helps simplify complexity in high-stakes, fast-paced tech environments. Key Themes & Topics (Timestamps): [00:00:00] Shifting Contexts, Expanding Use Toyer now operates at a director level and explains how his use of mind maps has adapted to strategic planning and broader systems thinking. [00:01:45] System Architecture Mapping Describes how mind maps can visualise ownership, flow, and architecture across interconnected systems — including using maps during high-level workshops. [00:03:09] Tools: XMind and Miro in Tandem Uses XMind for individual and offline brainstorming, and Miro for collaborative, online visual work with global teams. [00:05:02] Mind Maps as a Team Discussion Tool Maps act as live reference points during global meetings, facilitating real-time input, shared understanding, and structured conversations. [00:06:50] Mapping Complex Testing Scenarios Shows how mind maps help break down various types of testing (functional, compatibility, accessibility) and guide technical discussion clearly. [00:09:36] Mind Maps as Inclusive Collaboration Tools Quiet or hesitant team members often feel more comfortable contributing via map-based discussions. [00:12:29] Facilitating Workshops Using Maps Shares examples of using Miro maps with timers for gathering diverse inputs from multiple squads and teams, globally distributed. [00:14:14] From Management to Operational Use Explains how he buckets maps into management/vision planning and operational activities — tracking everything from goals to people, processes, and technologies. [00:16:12] Using Maps to Define Future States Describes how current-state maps (“as-is”) are analysed and evolved into future-state designs using mapping. [00:16:58] Presentation Planning with Mind Maps Uses maps as a starting point for preparing presentations — for internal teams, EXCO, and international conferences. [00:22:05] Sharing Maps Across Platforms Snapshots and PDFs are shared via Confluence; Miro links are embedded for live collaboration depending on the context. [00:23:46] Mapping Architecture and System Flows Illustrates how mapping helps break down flows, interdependencies, and data paths within complex systems. [00:26:11] QA Engineering Mapping Structure Details how he maps QA from three lenses: People, Process, and Tech — allowing for full-spectrum visibility and input. [00:33:11] Explaining Testing Hierarchy with Maps Uses a calculator example to explain testing levels — from unit tests to end-to-end flows — demonstrating how mind maps can make abstract technical ideas more accessible. Audience Q&A Highlights Topics included: – Mapping as a solutioning and brainstorming tool in both planning and problem-solving – Using maps to clarify software development concepts across roles and teams – Exporting maps for broader use (e.g., PDF snapshots or recreation in Miro) – Challenges and workarounds for mind map integration between tools – The evolving role of AI in mind mapping — including the vision of generating test cases and documentation from mapped structures – Mapping as a potential future interface for test management, documentation, and collaboration – How maps help structure technical content into usable, compliant formats for regulated environments – Vision for mind mapping with generative AI: turning visual input into actionable, standardized outputs