There is a creative process called “Thinking Hats” that works well for all types of groups that need to solve problems or make decisions ensuring that all perspectives of the problem or decision are examined. The hat process uses colors to indicate which perspective the group should wear at a particular time during a meeting. For example, black and yellow hats allow the group to look at an idea from both the positive and negative sides rather than the traditional team teaching of trying to be optimistic about all the ideas presented.
Developing a Pro / Con or +/- list for a selected idea or group of similar ideas is an example of the use of black and yellow hat thinking. The difference between this list and the traditional Pro / Con is that with hats the group should focus only on the pros or cons for a limited time rather than brainstorming back and forth on the positives and negatives of every possible solution.
Black = Negative
Make sure the group doesn’t turn black until the brainstorming is complete and everyone agrees to see the downside of the ideas. Wearing the black hat too early in the problem-solving process can result in individual defensiveness and fewer out-of-the-box ideas to pursue. However, black is essential for decision making because it allows the group to review the negative points related to the work of a particular idea so that the most feasible and effective solution can be found. During this time, the group may also want to review cost data to determine if overspending may be required. Looking for the downside of a situation allows the group to create a change management plan for all possible contingencies.
Yellow = Positive
During problem solving or decision making, it is often easy for one or more people in the group to be negative towards ideas for change. The yellow hat forces everyone to be optimistic and try to find the positive side of each solution for their consideration. The potential benefits and savings are presented and discussed at this point in the meeting. Dollar savings and estimated time period can also be listed to see the highest benefit. Understanding the main benefits will facilitate the development of communications that explain the reason for a selected change in process, product or responsibility so that it is more acceptable to all stakeholders.
Use the black and yellow hats to review ideas from both positive and negative perspectives. Allow a little more time to discuss the benefits of yellow, but be sure to allow enough time to discuss the disadvantages in black. This can help the group make a better and more informed decision. When wearing these hats, remember that “Thinking Hats” is a creative problem-solving and / or decision-making process for groups to wear at a specific time during a meeting. The hats help the group by providing a good process that leaves little doubt in the decisions made, but these two hats alone will not ensure success. The group should remain open to wearing additional hats in meetings and using various methods for brainstorming, problem solving, and decision making as needed.
NOTE: Author and consultant Edward de Bono delves into the concept of using Six Hats to think about his book with that title. To find more details on this topic, read his book. To get a general idea of what the other hat colors do for decision making in meetings, look up articles online on “problem solving and decision making” for red, white, blue and green.
