The ‘Six Thinking Hats’ is a structured method designed to help individuals and groups think effectively. It consists of six metaphorical hats that each represent a different approach to thinking.
The ‘Six Thinking Hats’ are:
- White: Factual
- Red: Emotive
- Black: Cautious
- Yellow: Positive
- Green: New Ideas
- Blue: Organised
Dr Edward de Bono, the Maltese physician, consultant, and author was the creator of the term ‘Lateral Thinking’ and the ‘Six Thinking Hats.’ Producing over 60 books within his lifetime surrounding his original and unorthodox theories on creative problem-solving methods, de Bono pioneered adopting an unfamiliar perspective as a primary technique for overcoming issues.
The ‘Six Thinking Hats’ method is mostly used within group settings but can also be used independently. For this example, we shall focus on the use of the six thinking hats in a group setting.
To use the Six Thinking Hats, you should begin the session by explaining that the Six Thinking Hats technique helps everyone approach a problem from various perspectives.
White Hat
The White Hat draws focus on data, facts and figures.
Some questions to ask when using the White Hat include:
“What information do we have about the issue?”
“What information do we lack?”
“What does this tell us?”
Red Hat
The Red Hat provides the emotional views and aspects of the issue.
Some comments made when using the Red Hat could include:
“I don’t feel confident in doing it this way”
“I don’t think that this idea will work”
“I believe that this method will fail”
Black Hat
The Black Hat highlights the importance of caution and criticism. It points out the weaknesses of an idea, though should not be seen as the ‘negative hat.’
Some questions to ask when using the Black Hat include:
“What could go wrong?”
“What problem are there already?”
“What happens if (negative event here)?”
Yellow Hat
The Yellow Hat is optimistic and embodies positive thinking.
Some questions to ask when using the Yellow Hat can include:
“What do we like about this?”
“How can we ensure this works?”
“What positives come from this idea or problem?”
Green Hat
The Green Hat indicates creativity and innovative ideas.
Some questions to ask when using the Green Hat can include:
“What are some alternative ways to approach the problem?”
“Can we explore some more suggestions?”
“What if we did it this way instead?”
Blue Hat
The Blue Hat is concerned with control, the organisation of the thinking process and the use of the other hats. Overall, the blue hat is the overseer.
In comparison to the other hats that are used frequently throughout a group, the ‘Blue Hat’ is usually given to the chairperson or leader of the group. The role of the ‘Blue Hat’ is to keep the team on track, keep time, as well as reminding group members as to what ‘hat’ should currently be discussed.
Start with the white hat and discuss the issue by having the group 'wear' each hat in sequence. When the discussion slows down, move on to the next hat. While you can allow the group to switch between hats if needed, ensure that each hat is used.
The role of the ‘Blue Hat’ is a singular person, they should take notes of the session and ensure that all members of the group have their say.
De Bono, E. (1971). The Use of Lateral Thinking.
Jeffries, S. (2021). Edward de Bono obituary. [online] The Guardian. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/books/2021/jun/10/edward-de-bono-obituary.
