A simple, effective parallel thinking technique developed by E. de Bono that helps people be more productive, focused, and mindfully involved. It forces people to move outside of their habitual thinking styles and get a more rounded view of a situation. Team members learn how to separate thinking into six clear functions and roles. Each role is identified with a colored symbolic “thinking hat” (white- facts; yellow- optimism; black- judgment; red- emotions; green- creativity; blue- conclusions). By mentally wearing and switching hats, you can easily focus or redirect thoughts, the conversation, or the meeting. A powerful tool set, which once learned can be applied immediately. See: debonogroup.com.