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The "Several Hats Method" for panel critique, very likely inspired by or directly referring to Edward de Bono's "Six Thinking Hats" method, is a technique used to structure a discussion and ensure that ideas are examined from various perspectives. Instead of everyone reacting to an idea with their usual mindset, each panel member is assigned a specific "hat" or role that dictates the type of feedback they should provide.

Here's how it works in a panel setting:

1. Assigning the Hats (Roles):

Before or at the beginning of the critique session, each panel member is assigned a different "hat" or role. These roles represent different modes of thinking. Common "hats" or roles, based on the Six Thinking Hats, include:

  • The Fact Finder (White Hat): This panel member focuses on objective data, facts, figures, and information. They ask questions like: "What do we know for sure?", "What data supports this?", "What information is missing?". Their critique is based on verifiable information.
  • The Optimist (Yellow Hat): This panel member focuses on the positive aspects, benefits, and potential value of the idea. They highlight the strengths and opportunities. They ask: "What are the advantages?", "What are the potential benefits?", "Why might this work?".
  • The Pessimist/Cautious Critic (Black Hat): This panel member focuses on potential problems, risks, weaknesses, and challenges associated with the idea. They play the devil's advocate and identify potential pitfalls. They ask: "What could go wrong?", "What are the potential risks?", "What are the weaknesses?".
  • The Creative Thinker (Green Hat): This panel member focuses on generating new ideas, alternatives, and possibilities related to the original idea. They encourage brainstorming and thinking outside the box. They ask: "Are there other ways to approach this?", "What are some alternative solutions?", "Can we modify this idea?".
  • The Emotional Reactor (Red Hat): This panel member expresses their gut feelings, intuitions, and emotions about the idea without needing to justify them logically. They offer subjective reactions. They might say: "I like this feeling," or "This makes me uneasy." (This hat is used sparingly in formal business settings but can be valuable for understanding initial reactions).
  • The Process Manager (Blue Hat): This panel member (often the moderator) oversees the thinking process. They define the focus, ensure everyone is playing their assigned role, summarize the discussion, and guide the panel towards conclusions. They ask: "What is the next step?", "Have we considered all angles?", "Let's summarize what we've learned."

2. The Critique Process:

  • Present the Idea: The person or team proposing the idea clearly presents it to the panel.
  • Round-Based Discussion: The discussion proceeds in rounds, with each panel member contributing feedback from the perspective of their assigned hat.
  • Focused Feedback: This structured approach ensures that different aspects of the idea are specifically addressed. For example, in one round, everyone might put on their "Black Hat" to discuss potential problems.
  • Switching Hats (Optional): In some variations, panel members might switch hats during the discussion to explore different perspectives on the same idea.
  • Moderation: The moderator plays a crucial role in keeping the discussion focused, ensuring everyone adheres to their assigned role, and managing the time.

3. Benefits of the Several Hats Method:

  • Structured Thinking: It provides a framework for a more organized and comprehensive critique.
  • Multiple Perspectives: It ensures that the idea is examined from various angles, preventing biases and overlooking important aspects.
  • Reduced Conflict: By assigning roles, it separates the person from the idea and encourages more objective feedback.
  • Increased Creativity: The "Green Hat" encourages the generation of new ideas and solutions.
  • Improved Communication: It provides a common language and framework for discussing ideas.
  • More Comprehensive Evaluation: It leads to a more thorough understanding of the idea's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.

In summary, the Several Hats Method is a valuable technique for facilitating a structured and multi-faceted critique of ideas in a panel setting by assigning specific thinking roles to each participant. It helps to move beyond individual biases and ensure a more thorough and balanced evaluation.