SIX THINKING HATS April 8, 2008

	White Hat Information known and needed Neutral and Objective Pure facts and figures “The facts, just the facts” First class facts: Checked and proven Second class facts: Believed to be true Identifies information that is missing Never your own opinions
	Yellow Hat Optimism: Values and Benefits – Why it will work Symbolises sunshine, brightness and optimism Positive and constructive Probes and explores for value and benefit Generative and supportive Strive to find logical support Speculative and opportunity seeking Permits visions and dreams
	Green Hat Possibilities, Alternatives and New Ideas Symbolises fertility, growth, and the value of seeds Creative thinking The search for alternatives Does not have to be logical Movement replaces judgment Moves from one idea to reach other ideas Generates new concepts and new perceptions
	Red Hat Feelings Hunches and Intuition Legitimises emotions and feeling “This is how I feel” Fears, likes, dislikes, loves, hates The opposite of neutral, objective information Keep it short No need to give reasons of the basis Allows exploring the feelings of others
	Black Hat Negative Judgment/Devil’s Advocate – Why it will not work Caution – Not argument Critical negative judgment Risk Analysis Logical reasons must be given Points out dangers and potential problems Points out faults in a design
	Blue Hat Managing the Thinking Process The “control” hat The orchestra conductor Organises the thinking “Thinking about the thinking needed to explore the subject” Calls for the use of other hats Sets the focus: Defines the problems and shapes the questions Responsible for summaries, overviews and conclusions Ensures that the rules are observed