De Bono 6 Thinking Hats Retro Template

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This document serves as a guide to effectively utilise the Six Thinking Hats method, a powerful tool for group discussion and individual thinking. Developed by Edward de Bono, this method encourages parallel thinking and helps teams explore different perspectives on a problem or idea. The Six Thinking Hats are represented by colours: Blue, White, Green, Yellow, Black, and Red, each symbolising a unique mode of thinking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Define the Problem or Idea

Begin by clearly stating the problem or idea you wish to explore. This will serve as the focal point for your discussion.

Step 2: Assign the Hats

Assign each participant a hat or rotate the hats among participants during the session. Ensure everyone understands the role associated with each hat:

Blue Hat: Facilitates the session, sets the agenda, and ensures the rules are followed.
White Hat: Focuses on data and facts. Participants should gather and present relevant information.
Green Hat: Encourages creativity and innovation. Participants brainstorm new ideas and alternatives.
Yellow Hat: Looks for the positives and benefits. Participants identify the advantages and potential gains.
Black Hat: Considers potential problems and risks. Participants critically assess what could go wrong.
Red Hat: Expresses feelings and intuitions. Participants share their emotional responses and gut feelings.

Step 3: Conduct the Session

Begin the session with the Blue Hat to outline objectives and rules. Progress through each hat, allowing time for discussion and input from all participants. Encourage open and respectful communication.

Step 4: Summarise and Conclude

Conclude the session with the Blue Hat to summarise the insights gained and decide on the next steps. Document the outcomes and any action items.

Step 5: Reflect and Review

After the session, reflect on the process and outcomes. Consider what worked well and what could be improved for future sessions.

By following these steps, you can effectively harness the power of the Six Thinking Hats to enhance decision-making and problem-solving within your team.

Paul Snedden

Agile Coach

G'day, I'm Paul from the country where it's always tomorrow. You'd know it as Australia. I'm an Agile Coach, helping teams think differently to solve problems. I'm also a big believer in making work fun - one great way of doing that is by mixing up the normal drudgery of meetings. The templates I create here can be used to bring alignment and collaboration, but in fun ways using games, themes, movies, music. If you think it, you can do it.