The method of six hats.

Introduction
Overview of the Six Thinking Hats Method
Application of the Method
Case Study: Speedo
Conclusion

Introduction

The Six Thinking Hats method is a unique brainstorming technique developed by British psychologist Edward de Bono in 1985. This approach allows teams to evaluate problems from different perspectives, gaining a more comprehensive and structured understanding of the situation. With the Six Thinking Hats method, it is possible not only to find unconventional solutions but also to organize the discussion process, which is especially important in modern conditions where creativity and innovation are key success factors.

Overview of the Six Thinking Hats Method

The Six Thinking Hats method consists of six different "hats," each symbolizing a specific type of thinking. This allows participants to focus on various aspects of the problem:

White Hat: analyzes facts and provides accurate data.
Red Hat: considers intuition, emotions, and personal feelings.
Black Hat: assesses negative consequences and potential weaknesses.
Yellow Hat: identifies positive sides and advantages.
Green Hat: generates creative and unconventional ideas.
Blue Hat: manages the process and coordinates decision-making.

De Bono also introduced the concept of "lateral thinking," which denotes the ability to go beyond traditional frameworks. He emphasizes that creativity can be developed, and the Six Thinking Hats method is one of the tools that aids in this process.

Application of the Method

The Six Thinking Hats method finds wide application in various fields, including marketing, strategic planning, and product design. Teams using this method can work effectively on projects, avoiding conflicts and misunderstandings. Each participant is assigned their own hat, which allows them to propose ideas within a specific role rather than engaging in disputes. Thus, participants' ideas do not contradict each other; instead, they enrich the discussion.

Case Study: Speedo

A striking example of the successful application of the Six Thinking Hats method is the team of swimsuit manufacturer Speedo. When developing a new model for professional swimmers, they used this method to address the issue of protruding details on swimsuits that slowed athletes down. Thanks to a creative approach and coordinated teamwork, Speedo was able to create swimsuits that helped athletes achieve outstanding results. Since then, Speedo has become a regular supplier of swimwear for American professional swimmers, and this collaboration has continued for 30 years.

Conclusion