SpaceTree

A computer fitted with the right set of programs can greatly enhance any domain of activity. For instance, it can even help organize all steps of a project or ideas into expandable diagrams to provide better visualization over the whole thing. A suitable example in this regard is SpaceTree, which also comes with various presets to help you get started.

One thing which needs to be noted first of all is that Java Runtime Environment is required for the application to properly function. On the other hand, there’s no setup involved to make SpaceTree work, so you can have it stored, and even used directly from a USB flash drive, without affecting the health status of the target PC, since registry entries are not altered in the process.

The application covers mind-mapping and diagram building tasks, and it does so in quite an intuitive manner. Most of the space is the canvas, on which you place different elements, as well as child items. As mentioned, there are also various preset example databases to get you up and running, covering most of the application can offer.

You start off from a main tree element, to which you add the required number of child items. These can be expanded and collapsed, and each can hold multiple subitems. Elements can’t be dragged around, but the automatic positioning does quite a good job at offering space, and keeping the view comfortable.

There are several properties which can be tweaked, such as distance between elements, as well as some minor visual tweaks. However, the application only lets you create elements in a pretty simple fashion, with little to no customization options, or possibility to thoroughly manage relations.

A search field makes it easy to identify elements of interest by highlighting them on the map as you type. As far as file support goes, you can import and export general projects as XML, but you have the possibility to save a PNG picture of the entire view.

All things considered, we can state that SpaceTree is a reliable application when it comes to building projects, mind-maps, or designing diagrams for your tasks on the long run. It’s pretty easy to use by individuals of all levels of experience, while portability adds a great deal of flexibility.