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Six Thinking Hats
Why it matters?
Everyone has a different inclination when it comes to decision-making: be it based on their role and perspective to the problem or their level of risk aversion or their optimism.
The best decisions will come from exploring different ways of seeing a problem: so you can investigate different ways of solving problems.
This is a lateral thinking tool created by the late innovator, Edward de Bono, and used in teams of all sizes for problems of all sizes to solve problems indirectly in creative (and surprising) ways! Not only is the process holistic, but inclusive, thorough, focused and mindful.
We are able to get out of the desire to be right, tunnel vision AND constantly reinforcing the views of those in charge.
How it works?
- Get familiar with all the different hats (best done in a team of at least 3, if not 6):
White Hat: “facts, information and data only”
Yellow Hat: “brightness, benefits and optimism”
Black Hat: “risk, problems, and difficulties”
Red Hat: “feelings, hunches, and intuition"
Green Hat: “creativity and fresh perspectives”
Blue Hat “organization and planning” > also acts as moderator of the exercise - Sit in a circle and place the “problem” metaphorically in the center as you evaluate it objectively from these different hats.
- Go in at least 2-3 rounds to flush out different perspectives or approaches to this problem.
For instance: you can separate the rounds across stakeholders, time horizons or problem sets. - Even if the Hat isn’t your personal opinion, it’s important to stress the role of the hat rather than your own perspective to expand your assumptions.
- Take note of the tension points and opportunities that come up during this lively discussion. Witness surprising perspectives to emerge!
Examples
“Wearing each hat” gives you (and your team) a rich understanding of the problem and new ways of moving forward.
Sources:
Six Thinking Hats by Edward de Bono