The Art of Parallel Thinking

Parallel Thinking

Edward de Bono invented the concept and phrase, “Parallel Thinking” in his book with the same title. Let us understand what this is:

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Propositions

Now that we have an idea of about Parallel Thinking, let us get into it! Let us consider a couple of ideas for schemes that have been “around” for some time:

• Military Conscription for 2 years
• Children Manage the House for one week
• Young People must be assigned one Elderly Person to live with
• All Cars must be removed from the City Centre

Can we apply Parallel Thinking to these and come up with a vote, or even a way to achieve these, if we can agree with the Propositions?

Some of the de Bono Thinking Tools:

1. 6 Thinking Hats Quick Reference (PDF Link)
2. 6H Technique - PMI: Plus Minus Interesting : https://www.debono.com/de-bono-thinking-lessons-1/1.-PMI-lesson-plan Also see:
   https://sites.google.com/site/qepcafe/modules/expand/plus-minus-interesting-pmi
3. 6H Technique - APC: Alternatives, Possibilities, Choices: https://www.debono.com/de-bono-thinking-lessons-1/6.-APC-lesson-plan
4. 6H Technique - CAF: Consider All Factors: https://www.debono.com/de-bono-thinking-lessons-1/2.-CAF-lesson-plan
5. 6H Technique - OPV: Other Peoples’ Voices: https://www.debono.com/de-bono-thinking-lessons-1/7.-OPV-lesson-plan
6. 6H Technique - CnS: Consequence and Sequel : https://www.debono.com/de-bono-thinking-lessons-1/3.-C%26S-lesson-plan

References

1. Reading in Parallel Thinking (Web Link)
   
2. Edward de Bono, Six Thinking Hats (Goodreads)
   
3. Quality Enhancement Program (QEP cafe) https://sites.google.com/site/qepcafe/#training-modules ( Link appears to be dead ;-() )
4. Reverse Brainstorming https://sites.google.com/site/qepcafe/modules/expand/reverse-brainstorming ( Link appears to be dead ;-() )
5. https://www.mindtools.com/a32qxsh/reverse-brainstorming