The six thinking hats technique prevents cross-functional conflicts by having the entire team adopt the same thinking perspective (hat) simultaneously, making it easier to consider all aspects of a solution.^[1]

Before starting the session, clearly define the solution or idea to be evaluated, prepare a shared document or board for capturing insights, and appoint both a timekeeper and note-taker. Use a visual aid (like a simple slide or chart) to show what each hat represents. This will help the team stay focused on the current perspective.

Here’s how to facilitate the session:

• Blue hat opening: Facilitator explains process flow and desired outcomes for the session.
• White hat phase: Everyone shares only known facts and data points about the topic/ problem at hand.
• Yellow hat phase: Team members identify potential benefits and opportunities.
• Black hat phase: Group examines risks and challenges without attempting solutions yet.
• Red hat phase: Each person briefly shares emotional responses and intuitive reactions.
• Green hat phase: Teams generate ideas to address challenges identified earlier.
• Blue hat closing: Facilitator guides team in summarizing key insights and next steps.

For remote sessions, use collaboration tools like Miro or Mural to create dedicated spaces for each hat's insights. This visual cue helps maintain synchronized thinking across the team.