Net-Map is an interview-based mapping tool that helps people understand, visualize, discuss, and improve situations in which many different actors influence outcomes. 
Below I have explored the idea of using Net-Map (through two computer applications called Visualyzer and GoToMeeting) in real time with groups all over the world online. While looking at ways how people can think together online, I came across this very instructive post about Online Graphic Organizers by Miguel Guhlin. He explores different free programs for drawing Mind Maps via the internet. Mind Maps are (mostly) not social networks (as in: actors connected by links) but rather networks of issues or ideas where a central idea is connected to branches of sub-ideas or sub-issues. I had a look at one application that he proposes called bubbl.us and it looks very useful.
Update: If you want to know it all, look at Vic Gee’s comment below and check out Vic’s comprehensive overview of tools for mind-mapping on-line and off-line.
Filed under: Other people's work, exploring new ideas, technical details
For people who like mindmapping and want it free, I’ve just pulled together in one place the details of all of the web-based ones, over at
http://www.mind-mapping.org/web-based-mindmappers/
This shows what’s free (and how much the subscriptions are for the others), what can import and export MindManager and FreeMind maps and, of course, where to find them. They let you collaborate with others when making a mindmap, as well.
Bubbl.us is there, of course (though it’s more of a concept mapper than a mindmapper), but so are many more.
Vic
http://www.mind-mapping.org
The master list of mind mapping &
information management software