Hexagons for systems thinking

Conversation, which happens in a linear way, places on memory the burden of recollecting patterns of connection. It is an inefficient medium, unsupported by visual representation. We are all constrained here by the 'magic number seven plus or minus two' as the inherent limit to short term memory and attention (Miller, 1956). The recording of statements on flip charts or white-boards has become customary to help limitations of attention and memory. This skill leaves us, however, with a memory which tends to be a check list or a diagram of some kind, both of which are inflexible. 

By using movable hexagons for capturing data, a simple visual medium for handling flexibly the content of conversation is created. To return to our team: as the statements come out in conversation the facilitator captures each distinct idea as a summary headline on a magnetic backed hexagon which can be placed initially at random on a large steel whiteboard, clearly seen and accessible to the group. Each point is checked, as it is written up, for mutual comprehension but without at this stage debate about its validity. The guiding principle is that if someone in a responsible team thinks it, there must be something in it.

-Antony M Hodgson, 'Hexagons for systems thinking'. European Journal of Systems Dynamics. Vol 59 No. 1 1992.