6x2: 5 Proven Methods To Boost Engagement

Let's delve into the fascinating world of 6x2 brainstorming techniques and explore five proven methods to boost engagement using this method. This technique, inspired by the structured yet creative problem-solving approach of Edward de Bono, can transform how groups generate ideas and make decisions.

Understanding 6x2

The 6x2 method involves participants cycling through six specific roles or "hats", each representing a different mode of thinking:

• White Hat: Facts and information
• Red Hat: Emotions and feelings
• Black Hat: Critical judgment
• Yellow Hat: Optimism and benefits
• Green Hat: Creativity and new ideas
• Blue Hat: Process control

Each role is adopted for two rounds (hence "6x2"), allowing for a deeper exploration and application of these thinking modes.

Method 1: Structured Brainstorming with 6x2

Preparation for 6x2 Sessions

Before initiating a 6x2 session, ensure everyone understands the hats' purpose. Here’s how to prepare:

• Allocate Time: Each hat typically requires 10-15 minutes.
• Set the Agenda: Define the problem clearly.
• Organize Space: Have a visible grid or chart showing hat cycles.

Implementation

1. White Hat Round 1 & 2: Begin with gathering data. What do we know? What do we need to know? This encourages factual discussions.

   <p class="pro-note">📝 Pro Tip: Use visual tools like mind maps or data boards to capture facts effectively.</p>

2. Red Hat Round 1 & 2: Here, emotions and intuition come to the fore. How do we feel about the issue?

3. Black Hat Round 1 & 2: Look for potential pitfalls or challenges. Why might this idea not work? This is where critical thinking is crucial.

4. Yellow Hat Round 1 & 2: Focus on positivity. What could go right? How could this benefit us?

5. Green Hat Round 1 & 2: Time for creative solutions. What new ideas can we generate? Encourage lateral thinking.

6. Blue Hat Round 1 & 2: This hat oversees the process. How can we improve our process? Summarize what was discussed.

   <p class="pro-note">📝 Pro Tip: Make sure to record each session’s findings on a digital document or board for easy access and review.</p>

Benefits of Structured Brainstorming with 6x2

• Promotes comprehensive analysis through different lenses.
• Facilitates emotional engagement which can be crucial in decision making.
• Encourages creativity through structured freedom.

Method 2: Role Rotation for Balanced Participation

Explanation

Role rotation in 6x2 ensures that all participants engage with every hat, fostering a balanced contribution. Here’s how to do it:

• Each person takes on each hat role in sequence over two rounds.
• Rotate roles after each round to ensure different perspectives.

Implementation

1. First Round: Assign hats to participants for the first set of discussions.

   • Example: Person 1 starts with the White Hat, Person 2 with the Red Hat, etc.

2. Second Round: Swap roles, so now Person 1 has the Red Hat, and Person 2 has the Black Hat, and so on.

   <p class="pro-note">📝 Pro Tip: To keep track, use a chart or board showing who wears which hat at each stage.</p>

Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting

• Assuming Prior Knowledge: Not all participants might be familiar with 6x2. Always ensure a brief intro.
• Time Management: Stick to the time allocations to prevent some hats from dominating the discussion.

Method 3: 6x2 with Visual Stimuli

Introduction to Visual Engagement

Visual aids can significantly enhance engagement. Integrating visuals with the 6x2 method can:

• Stimulate different thinking styles through visual cues.
• Help in better retention and understanding of ideas.

Implementation

1. Pre-Session Preparation:

   • Create visual prompts for each hat; images, colors, or objects that symbolize each hat's thinking mode.

2. Session Execution:

   • White Hat: Display charts, graphs, or data visuals.
   • Red Hat: Use emotional images or colors (e.g., red for passion or energy).
   • Black Hat: Show warning signs or critical reviews.
   • Yellow Hat: Use bright, optimistic visuals like sunshine or smiling faces.
   • Green Hat: Display abstract or innovative art, nature, or inventions.
   • Blue Hat: Have process diagrams or organizational charts.

   <p class="pro-note">📝 Pro Tip: Ensure visuals are relevant to the discussion topics to maintain focus.</p>

Benefits of Using Visuals in 6x2

• Stimulates different learning styles.
• Helps in breaking down complex data into digestible visuals.
• Enhances creative and analytical thinking simultaneously.

Method 4: 6x2 for Problem Identification and Solving

Setting Up the Problem

The 6x2 method isn't just for brainstorming; it's excellent for structured problem-solving:

• Identify the problem using the White Hat.
• Explore emotions and intuition around the problem with the Red Hat.
• Analyze potential pitfalls with the Black Hat.
• Look for positive outcomes with the Yellow Hat.
• Generate solutions with the Green Hat.
• Oversee the process and summarize with the Blue Hat.

Implementation

1. Problem Definition:

   • Use the White Hat to gather all known data about the issue.

2. Emotional Insight:

   • Engage the Red Hat to discuss feelings and instincts related to the problem.

3. Critical Analysis:

   • With the Black Hat, list out all potential problems or obstacles.

4. Optimistic Outlook:

   • Use the Yellow Hat to discuss the benefits or potential successes.

5. Creative Solutions:

   • The Green Hat round involves brainstorming solutions.

6. Summarize and Plan:

   • With the Blue Hat, review the process, and plan the next steps.

   <p class="pro-note">📝 Pro Tip: Document each step meticulously to avoid losing track of discussed points.</p>

Troubleshooting Tips

• Over-Optimism: The Yellow Hat might skew the session towards over-optimism. Balance with critical analysis.
• Emotional Dominance: If emotions run high, use the Blue Hat to refocus the session.

Method 5: Adaptive 6x2 for Remote Teams

Context

In today's remote work environment, adapting 6x2 for virtual teams is essential:

• Virtual Collaboration Tools: Use platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Miro for online 6x2 sessions.

Implementation

1. Set Up Virtual 6x2:

   • Create a virtual board with columns for each hat.

2. Roles and Rotation:

   • Assign virtual "hats" to participants.
   • Use breakout rooms for each hat round, allowing for more focused discussions.

3. Visual and Audio Engagement:

   • Utilize screen sharing, virtual whiteboards, and collaborative tools to engage participants.
   • Ensure clear audio for communication.

4. Moderation:

   • Appoint a virtual "Blue Hat" to manage the flow and timing of the session.

   <p class="pro-note">📝 Pro Tip: Use video to maintain eye contact and ensure participants feel connected.</p>

Advanced Techniques

• Chat for White Hat: Use chat for sharing facts and figures.
• Polls for Red Hat: Use polls to quickly gauge emotions.
• Screen Recordings: Record sessions for later review or for absent team members.

Closing

In conclusion, the 6x2 technique provides a robust framework for creative and critical thinking. Whether it's through structured brainstorming, role rotation, using visual aids, problem-solving, or adapting for remote teams, this method can significantly boost engagement and innovation. Experiment with these approaches to find what works best for your team and problem at hand.

The true power of 6x2 lies in its flexibility to fit different contexts and its ability to bring a diverse range of thoughts and solutions to the table. Next time you face a challenge, consider using the 6x2 method to unlock creativity and engagement from your team.

<p class="pro-note">🚀 Pro Tip: Always leave a little time at the end of each session for open discussion or further exploration of ideas generated.</p>

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What is the purpose of the Blue Hat in the 6x2 method?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>The Blue Hat oversees the process, ensures time management, and summarizes the discussion in each round.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How long should each hat round last in a 6x2 session?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Each hat round typically lasts between 10 to 15 minutes, though this can be adjusted based on the complexity of the discussion or the number of participants.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can the 6x2 method be used for personal decision making?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, you can adapt the 6x2 method for personal use by going through the thinking stages yourself or by involving a trusted friend or family member to represent different hats.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What should I do if participants are not engaging with the hats?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Consider using visual aids, encouraging active participation through questions, or briefly reviewing the purpose of each hat to re-engage participants.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>