Starting Points with Quick Reference Guides: Gathering Before Designing
http://www.idratherbewriting.com/2009/05/14/starting-points-gathering-before-designing/

Johnson, Tom H.
I'd Rather Be Writing
2009

Abstract:

Dan Roam explains that drawing pictures can help you solve problems. He says the first rule is to “collect everything possible up front.” After collecting all your information, you then “lay it all out where you can look at it.” By laying out all the information, you can grasp the whole of it, make connections between various parts, see the important sections, and recognize patterns.