When we get into an implementation for SuccessFactors or SAP or any other HRIS for that matter, we generally follow the prescribed methodologies – BizXpert, SAP Launch, Empower etc. and most often we get so involved with the execution aspects, that we do not realize the questions we need to ask at each step to lead us to the right answers during implementation.

Edward Bono, an expert on study of how people think, developed the “six thinking hats approach to allow individuals and the group to attend to all parts of the problem.

He took the “Let’s put on our analytical hats” analogy one step further. If we take this analogy, each of the points mentioned would make implementation seem like a perfect piece of puzzle that will eventually turn out to be a worthy piece of art.

The Six Thinking Hats, author DeBono identified are:

White Hat: Deals with Facts, Figures and Objective Information

• What’s the timeline?
• Did you miss a crucial piece of information in your analysis?

Red Hat: Deals with Emotions and Feelings

• How do you feel about this approach?
• What Level 2 impact will it have on your people and your team?
• Am I comfortable with this approach?

See: Will Wearable HR Technology Revolutionise the Workplace?

Black Hat: Deals with Logical errors in thinking

• Have you missed thinking about the implications of this on Timelines and Quality?
• You missed some important details in the second section of the proposal?
• Risk Management Plan?

Yellow Hat: Deals with Positive Constructive thoughts

• I like this idea! What are the potential benefits if we take this approach?
• Can I bring in Customer Delight with this approach?

Green Hat: Deals with Creativity and New ideas

• Here’s another angle we could take on this proposal.
• What other ways might we consider to build support for this idea?

Blue Hat: Deals with Control of Other Hats and Thinking Steps

• Now that we’ve looked at using all of the hats, what should we do next?
• What stands out to you, now that you’ve heard all the opinions and reactions?
• Let’s integrate the ideas into a coherent plan.

We, most times unconsciously put on a few of the hats mentioned above during implementation, however it’s important to realize that each of these hats provide crucial information.

For an implementation to be successful, every team member should don one of these thinking hats to work on the project in hand and  always remember to wear the Blue Hat lastly and to acquire significant learning from each of the experiences towards the end of it all.

Also read: Top 10 Disruptive HR Technology Trends for 2016

Content attribution:

Rolling Arrays is Asia’s premier award winning HR Transformation Company, headquartered in Singapore with offices in 6 countries. Since its inception in 2009, Rolling Arrays has successfully delivered more than 100 HR transformation projects for more than 50 blue-chip clients across Asia. A consultative approach to HR processes, HR functions and HR software is Rolling Arrays core expertise and the primary catalyst for its success.

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