InSight Frames Thinking Tools- Overview

Over the past month, we had a chance to overview the 10 InSight Frames thinking tools which will allow you to develop your thinking to be  faster, better & easier. While there is a brief learning period to get familiar with each of the 10 tools, they are simple and easy to use and gain results from.

I agree, it takes some focus and deliberate effort to use the tool approach to thinking, but from my own experience, one you know how to think using tools like these, you can cut through mounds of information and make use of what you need from it much more readily.

Remember too, that the tools are best applied when you have a clear thinking focus issue (single and simple or complex). Very often, the act of defining or refining your thinking focus is half the battle in moving your thinking and action plans forward.

One more time, as a review.

1)  Spotlight Frame- focus which can be broad or narrow (relative terms)

2) Periscope Frame- heads up and looking all around to identify relevant factors

3) Bifocal Binoculars Frame- tuning into short and long-term consequences, so that you may design out or avoid trouble spots and design in desirable outcomes or actions steps

4) Designer Glasses Frame- generating/ trying  multiple alternatives on for size to optimize a higher quality of option to work with

5) Sunglasses Frame- filter out options to be able to make decisons and take action. Sometimes criteria is set, sometimes you choose what naturally comes first or is a pripority (recognizing that different people can have different prioirities even on the same project.)

6) Telescope Frame- honing in on the purpose and goals for your thinking focus, realtive to the purpose

7) Microscope Frame- seeking to recognize and decipher patterns that gives early clues as to how to act

 Kaleidoscope Frame- identifying others whose views inpact on the thinking focus issue involved  and noting their views objectively

9)Prism Frame-  takes thinking inputs and splits out core values and vital determining factors, both positive and negative. In relation to the thinking focus issue and purpose, what are the must-have elements, and must not have elements.

10) Goggles Frame- role play taking a rigorous and objective 360 degree view via positive aspects of your thinking focus, Negative aspects and Interesting aspects.

Remember, you must bring both quality and rigor to your thinking process. The InSight Frames are just tools to help you get more mileage out of both information you encounter and of your thinking process itself. The ROI far exceeds the time you will invest to gain a comfort level with the tools.

Have fun with this, and be bold!