How effective are mind-maps?

Mind-maps are used by anyone who would like to put their ideas down on paper. We have all seen the result of this through presentations, speeches, novels, and so many other works by individuals such as yourself. Mind-maps seem to make ideas flow better due to linking ideas when one is drawn out, which keeps the audience attached to the topic being discussed rather than being led to dead ends and spontaneous topics. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wLWV0XN7K1g