Matchware and DiDA

Updated on: 27.04.2026

MatchWare's DiDA suite brings together three powerful applications — OpenMind, Mediator, and ScreenCorder — to help students master ICT skills through hands-on, project-based learning. Whether you're building an e-portfolio, planning projects with mind maps, or preparing for real-world digital workflows, this educational toolkit covers all the bases.

What Is MatchWare's DiDA Suite?

DiDA (Diploma in Digital Applications) is a qualification developed by Edexcel that focuses on the practical application of technology in real-world scenarios. MatchWare's suite of applications is specifically designed to support students working toward DiDA qualifications, giving them the tools they need to complete ICT projects that meet industry standards.

The three core programs — OpenMind, Mediator, and ScreenCorder — work in tandem to cover everything from project planning and multimedia creation to screen recording. For educators, the suite offers a structured, assessable framework. For students, it provides a genuine introduction to professional-grade digital publishing and project management workflows — skills that are increasingly valuable in both higher education and the workplace.

This kind of digitalization in education and business is not just a trend; it's becoming the expected standard for how knowledge is created, shared, and assessed.

Building E-Portfolios with OpenMind 2 Business

At the heart of the DiDA programme is the e-portfolio — a structured digital collection of work that students compile, organise, and submit for assessment. OpenMind 2 Business, powered by MatchWare's MindView mapping software, is the recommended tool for tackling this requirement efficiently.

With MindView, students can brainstorm and plan projects using visual mind maps, then switch seamlessly to a Gantt chart view or a timeline — all within the same application. This flexibility makes it easy to move from the early ideation stage right through to structured project delivery. Branches can have files attached directly to them, including text documents, images, audio clips, and Flash files, making it straightforward to build a rich, multi-format e-portfolio.

Export to HTML is a particularly useful feature: it allows students to produce a fully interactive DiDA portfolio that can be reviewed by moderators using the included OpenMind Viewer. Hyperlinking to any file format — PDF, SWF, HTML, TXT, PNG, and more — ensures every piece of evidence is accessible and clearly presented.

Students who want to go even further with their digital output can Create and share interactive digital publications for free — turning static exports into engaging flipbooks or e-papers that are easy to share and view online.

If you're exploring how digital documents can enhance student learning beyond the classroom, it's also worth reading about the benefits of flipbooks for students — a practical look at why interactive formats are gaining traction in educational settings.

Want to try this yourself? You can start publishing for free on YUMPU and experience how interactive digital publishing can complement your ICT e-portfolio workflow.

MindView Features Worth Knowing

MindView is more than a mind mapping tool — it's a full productivity suite for both project planning and visual thinking. Here's what makes it stand out for DiDA students and educators:

• Multiple mapping styles: Choose from a variety of map layouts and visual templates to suit different project types and personal preferences.

• Customisable graphics: Adjust branch shapes, map styles, and graphics, or upload your own images to personalise your workspace.

• Multiple project views: Switch between a mind map, hierarchical pyramid, timeline, Gantt chart, or linear list — all from the same project file.

• Numeric data support: Add values for quantities, costs, sales figures, or rates to enrich your project displays with real data.

• Microsoft Office integration: Export directly to Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Project Exchange files. All Microsoft file formats are importable, too.

• Outlook sync: Synchronise tasks and deadlines directly with Microsoft Outlook to stay on top of project timelines.

• Sharing tools: Use the built-in email capabilities or MindView Viewer to share your project with clients, colleagues, or assessors.

Why DiDA Matters for Digital Skills Development

The DiDA qualification isn't just about passing an exam — it's about developing the kind of transferable digital skills that employers and universities increasingly expect. Students who complete DiDA have hands-on experience with mind mapping software, project documentation, multimedia production, and structured digital publishing. These are skills with direct real-world applications, from creating professional presentations to managing collaborative projects.

As more organisations shift to digital document distribution and online publishing platforms, the ability to produce, organise, and share digital content becomes a core competency. Tools like MindView give students a head start in that direction, bridging the gap between academic assessment and genuine workplace readiness.

FAQ: MatchWare DiDA Suite & MindView

What is the DiDA qualification?

DiDA stands for Diploma in Digital Applications and is a qualification developed by Edexcel. It focuses on the practical use of technology, preparing students for real-world ICT tasks through project-based assessments.

What are the three programs in MatchWare's DiDA suite?

The suite includes OpenMind (for e-portfolio creation and mind mapping), Mediator (for multimedia projects), and ScreenCorder (for screen recording tasks). Together they cover the full range of DiDA assessment requirements.

What is MindView used for in DiDA?

MindView is MatchWare's mind mapping software used within OpenMind 2 Business. Students use it to plan projects, create visual mind maps, and build interactive e-portfolios that can be exported to HTML and reviewed by moderators.

Can I export my DiDA e-portfolio to different formats?

Yes. MindView supports export to HTML for interactive portfolios, as well as Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Project Exchange files. You can also hyperlink to a wide range of file formats including PDF, PNG, and SWF.

How does the Gantt chart view work in MindView?

MindView allows you to switch any project from a mind map view to a Gantt chart, timeline, or hierarchical list with a few clicks. This makes it easy to move between brainstorming and structured project planning within the same tool.

Can MindView handle Microsoft Office files?

Yes. MindView can import all major Microsoft Office formats and export directly to Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Project files. It also syncs with Microsoft Outlook for task and deadline management.

What is the OpenMind Viewer?

The OpenMind Viewer is included in the DiDA moderator's toolkit and allows assessors to review student e-portfolios without needing a full installation of MindView. It ensures smooth, complication-free access to submitted work.

Is the DiDA suite suitable for team projects?

MindView includes sharing and email capabilities, making it straightforward to collaborate with classmates or share work with teachers and clients. The MindView Viewer also facilitates review without requiring the full application.

How does digital publishing fit into the DiDA programme?

Digital publishing is central to the DiDA ethos: students are expected to produce, format, and present digital content to a professional standard. Tools like MindView and platforms that support online publishing help students develop exactly these skills.

What skills does completing DiDA prepare students for?

DiDA prepares students for a range of digital competencies including project management, multimedia content creation, structured document publishing, and ICT e-portfolio development — all highly transferable to further education and professional environments.