1.5 - About University

Using MetaphorsBlue-Skying/No Constraints/What if …Using HumorSix-Hat ThinkingMind MappingUsing metaphors helpspeople explore novelapproaches and new options.Imagining how the issuecould be dealt with if youhad no constraints or barriersto deal with.Because it is based on unexpectedtwists, humor is agreat way to loosen up, inorder to generate new ideas.Another of de Bono’s techniquesplaces creative (greenhat) thinking in the contextof legitimizing other modes.Taking a situation, especiallya complex issue, and mappingall its interconnections.✔ Sports metaphors are commonly used to describe situations:kick-off, coach, and heavyweights.✔ To help create more options, use a new or novel metaphor,like “Suppose our customers are fish … .”✔ Ask people to set aside all the barriers, impediments, andproblems and think of the ideal solution. “What if we had allthe money we need … .”✔ Then take this idea and make it work as best you can.✔ Use humor to break out of conventional thinking (e.g., “Howmany management consultants does it take to change a lightbulb?”)✔ Be careful. Sarcastic humor can shut down creativity.✔ Six-Hat Thinking is particularly effective in equalizing variousgroup members’ thinking.[☛ 6.6 Six-Hat Thinking]✔ On a whiteboard, name the complex issue in the center, placeall related items around it, then connect these issues withappropriate arrows.[☛ 6.8 Mind Mapping]I NNOVATIONPROCESSESLeaders have tremendous control over the first part of the innovation process: encouragingnew ideas (or not discouraging new ideas). The second part of innovation—high-grading andstickhandling a new idea into action—is the most challenging of all. These are dealt with inthe application section.H OW TO USE THIS LEADERSHIP TOOL“It’s easier to be a result of the past than a cause of the future.”—Ashleigh BrilliantAs a leader, the culture you establish is crucial. You have the most control over encouragementof a culture of creativity in your area of influence. Most workers have a wealth of creative ideasto improve their work and the organization, if only they are give a chance to express thoseideas and work them through. In our experience, 3M is one organization that is working hardat creating a culture that lives up to its innovation motto.WEB WORKSHEETT HE I NNOVATION A SSESSMENT AND A CTION P LANPart 1: Encouraging Innovation in Your Area of Influence (workgroup, team, businessunit, or organization)Rate yourself on these questions and plan action as required.190 SECTION 6 TOOLS FOR CRITICAL THINKING AND INNOVATION