Build, Share, Reflect
I love playing with LEGOs (and my Kids are the perfect alibi to do it still) - but there actually IS a reason to do it in a business environment, too.
LEGO® Serious Play® (LSP) is a powerful (and fun) tool for organizations seeking to enhance creativity, improve communication, and solve complex problems. Developed in the late 1990s by the LEGO Group in collaboration with business professors, this innovative methodology leverages the connection between manual dexterity and cognitive processes.
Grounded in constructivist learning theory, LSP employs a "hands-on, minds-on" approach. Participants use LEGO® bricks to construct models representing their ideas or solutions to challenges posed by a facilitator. By building physical models, individuals externalize their thoughts, making abstract concepts tangible and easier to communicate. The process involves presenting these models and discussing the insights gained, fostering deeper understanding and collective knowledge.
LSP has significant benefits for organizations. It bridges communication gaps, ensures all voices are heard, and keeps participants actively engaged. Teams can tackle complex issues from new perspectives, improving their problem-solving capabilities. LSP's collaborative nature also strengthens team dynamics by fostering trust, empathy, and mutual understanding.
LSP has proven effective across various scenarios, including strategic planning, product innovation, change management, and team building. Its versatility allows it to be adapted to different industries and organizational needs.
A pivotal moment in LSP's history came in 2010, when the LEGO Group open-sourced the methodology. This decision has allowed a global community of practitioners to adopt and develop the methodology more widely. Detailed information and resources about the open-sourced LSP methodology can be found at https://www.seriousplay.com/, which serves as a hub for the LSP community.
To implement LSP effectively, organizations should identify specific challenges they want to address, engage a certified facilitator, and create a safe, judgment-free session environment. Proper preparation and follow-through are crucial for translating insights into actionable outcomes.
LSP's open-source nature has expanded its reach and potential impact, enabling organizations of all sizes across various sectors to access and implement this powerful tool. This democratization has led to a rich ecosystem of practitioners, researchers, and innovators who continue to refine and expand LSP's applications.
In an era where adaptability and creative thinking are paramount, LEGO® Serious Play® stands out as a method for helping organizations navigate complexity, push innovation, and build stronger, more collaborative teams.
Have I mentioned that it's fun too?
