Before I get into recommending any idea management software solutions, I want to point out that ‘idea management’ is actually a bit of a buzzword term, for many related types of software. In essence idea management software is collaborative knowledge management and leverage management software combined.
It’s no secret that buzzwords annoy me, especially when they affect the articles I need to write. I can’t let this buzzword mislead my readers into chasing software that doesn’t technically exist. So let me show you a selection of software that defines ‘Idea Management.’
#1 Bloomfire
Bloomfire is a knowledge sharing and management suite intended for a vast range of business sizes. It offers authoring tools, video software, document management, single sign in, API and presentation tools. It also offers modules and macros, email notifications, mobile app interoperability, password protection, sub communities, easy file uploading and a lot more.
If you’re in the market for knowledge management, Bloomfire is a hefty offering. Although smaller businesses may find it a bit daunting and overpowering (or overly expensive), I really like the feature list and business philosophy behind it. So I’d recommend Bloomfire for businesses of all sizes. At least try the demo and read the reviews.
#2 Cluster
Cluster is intended to be a ‘middle ground’ software, and it works quite exceptionally. Cluster offers custom taxonomy, unlimited workgroups, content categories, online meetings, expert search, wikis, knowledge banks, online meetings, CRM, content sharing, messaging, event listing, engagement and social tools. And that’s the brief list, compared to everything it offers.
Cluster is ideal for projects, proposals and knowledge management (which is probably the closest definition to what ‘idea management’, actually is).
#3 Powernoodle
Powernoodle has a bit of an amusing name, and it’s one of the more powerful solutions I’ve seen. It is a robust business suite. Powernoodle offers everything the others on this list do, but it also offers leverage processes, buy-in and commitment management. Powernoodle provides you with a large set of tools to help uncover new insights and share ideas. It works for a single team, many teams or even large groups of companies working together to achieve a common goal.
Powernoodle is big and expensive. Research all the functionalities and features before you make this costly (but well worth it) purchase.
Idea management software is just a combination of collaborative knowledge management and leverage management software. Check out these 3 options and let me know what you think!