Hexagonal thinking is a cognitive framework that encourages a holistic and interconnected approach to problem-solving. It involves considering multiple perspectives and connections between different elements or concepts. This approach is particularly useful for complex problems that require creative solutions.
Here are 13 examples of hexagonal thinking in action:
- Business Strategy: Instead of viewing each department in isolation, a hexagonal thinker considers how different functions can support and enhance each other to achieve organizational goals.
- Education: Hexagonal thinking helps students make connections between different subjects, enhancing their understanding and critical thinking skills.
- Systems Thinking: This approach considers how different parts of a system interact and influence each other, leading to a more comprehensive understanding of the system as a whole.
- Design: Hexagonal thinking allows designers to consider the interactions and relationships between different design elements, resulting in more cohesive and user-centered designs.
- Problem Solving: By exploring different perspectives and connections, hexagonal thinking helps identify innovative solutions to complex problems.
- Teamwork: Hexagonal thinking promotes collaboration and communication among team members, fostering a more holistic approach to achieving common goals.
- Innovation: Hexagonal thinking encourages exploring beyond established boundaries and finding new connections between seemingly unrelated ideas, leading to creative breakthroughs.
- Decision Making: This framework helps decision-makers consider the potential impact and consequences of their choices from multiple angles.
- Project Management: Hexagonal thinking enables project managers to identify dependencies and connections between tasks, optimizing project timelines and resources.
- Personal Development: By considering various aspects of their lives, individuals can use hexagonal thinking to identify areas for improvement and set holistic goals.
- Research: Hexagonal thinking supports researchers in exploring interdisciplinary connections and uncovering new insights.
- Conflict Resolution: This approach helps people understand and address the underlying causes of conflicts by considering multiple perspectives and finding common ground.
- Marketing: Hexagonal thinking allows marketers to analyze the relationships between different marketing channels and develop integrated and cohesive campaigns.
In conclusion, hexagonal thinking is a powerful tool to approach problem-solving, decision-making, and creativity from a holistic perspective. By considering multiple connections and perspectives, we can find innovative solutions and achieve better outcomes in various domains.

