Project management software specialist Mindjet has announced a major update to its MindManager integrated workflow, resource and task management suite. The additions to the tools are designed to enhance usability and make it easier for business users to model, visualise and manage projects.

The company said that MindManager 7, which will be available from the start of next month, boasted a completely new look and feel based on Microsoft Office 2007's new Fluent user interface (UI) and featuring improved search capabilities, new process map styles and enhanced screen tips.

"We licensed the Microsoft Office UI and have incorporated it into MindManager in a way that makes it far easier for people to learn how to use the software," explained Lisa Arthur, CMO at Mindjet. "However, the suite is still compatible with earlier versions of Windows and Office so you don’t need to be running Vista or [Office] 2007 to get the new modern feel [to MindManager]."

She added that the suite also boasts tight integration with Office that allows users to launch Excel, Word or other Office apps from within MindManager and import or export key project information between the two environments.

The new suite will be available in three versions: a MindManager Pro edition priced from £199; a Mac edition from £86; and for the first time a MindManager Lite suite which does not integrate as tightly with Office but is available from £50.

Arthur added that users who upgrade to MindManager 7 during June will also get a free edition of the vendor's Jet Pack suite of pre-configured project management templates which can be up loaded into MindManager.