Six Thinking Hats by Edward de Bono is a powerful tool for effective thinking, communication and problem solving. The book was first published in 1985 and it has become a well known problem solving technique used in companies and organizations all over the world. The title of the book comes from De Bono’s concept of directing mental focus through the use of six metaphorical colored hats.
The basic premise of six thinking hats is that instead of discussing an issue or problem in a linear manner, people come together and approach the issue with the six distinct perspectives. Each of the hats represents a certain mindset and frame of mind, with the goal being to think differently and lead to new solutions. Through this process, solutions can be arrived faster and more efficiently.
To start, each person puts on a different color hat to represent a different mindset. There is the white hat, which is used for gathering data and looking at numbers. Then there is the red hat which gives the individual a sense of intuition and gut feeling. The black hat is used for caution and risk assessment. The yellow hat is for optimism, exploration and creativity. The green hat encourages lateral thinking and innovation. The blue hat is used for organizing and focusing.
Rather than just giving a singular solution to the problem, each individual gives their opinion and input from each of the metaphorical hats, allowing for an in-depth view of the situation. It also allows for critique and suggestions that would not be available when just trying to come up with a single solution.
The advantage of six thinking hats is that when used correctly, it allows for a complete and in-depth look at a problem. It helps to uncover hidden factors that may have been overlooked. It also helps to overcome biases by giving team members an opportunity to approach the same issue from different perspectives.
The book Six Thinking Hats by Edward de Bono does an excellent job in explaining and illustrating how this problem solving approach can be applied in various settings. It outlines the principles as well as some practical examples to help people begin to understand how to use the tool in their own situation. He also includes some case studies highlighting how the technique has been used successfully in the past.
The book is an invaluable tool, particularly in the business world where effective problem solving is essential. Six Thinking Hats gives individuals and teams the ability to increase their efficiency and address problems and issues in a novel way.
The six thinking hats by Edward de Bono is essential reading for anyone looking to become an effective problem solver. The book explains the principles in easy to understand language and illustrates how the technique can be applied in different settings. It can be a valuable resource for anyone who wishes to become a better problem solver and increase their effectiveness.
