Team-Workshop LEGO® SeriousPlay®

The LEGO® Serious Play® (LSP) method is a moderated, creative workshop approach in which participants use LEGO bricks to visually and haptically model ideas, challenges and solutions. By building three-dimensional metaphors, complex topics can be made more understandable, different perspectives can be made visible and new approaches to solutions can be developed. The method is based on active, equal participation, so that each participant expresses and explains their thoughts through the model. This promotes open communication, in-depth reflection and sustainable cooperation.

LEGO® Serious Play® is a scientifically based method that was originally developed by LEGO in collaboration with scientists from the International Institute for Management Development (IMD) in Lausanne. It is based on the idea that the hands are directly connected to the brain and that complex thoughts can be visualized, analysed and discussed by working haptically with LEGO bricks.

The principle is simple: you build to think. Instead of talking at length about problems, participants use LEGO bricks to create three-dimensional models of their thoughts, ideas or possible solutions. These models are then presented and reflected on as a team. This creates new perspectives that can lead to innovative solutions.

The method follows a clear process that is accompanied by a trained moderator, the LEGO® SeriousPlay® facilitator.

After an introductory phase, the so-called “skill-building”, in which the participants are introduced to the method, the facilitator asks an open question on a specific topic (e.g. “What does our ideal teamwork look like?” or “What challenges do we need to solve?”), which is the basis for this LSP workshop.

Each participant then creates an individual model with LEGO bricks that symbolizes their personal perspective or solution idea. There are no wrong models - every expression is valid.

The participants then present their models individually and explain their meaning. Sharing their own thoughts based on the model promotes deep reflection and a better understanding within the group.

The presentation of the models is followed by the reflection phase, the group analyzes the individual models, identifies common patterns, challenges or opportunities and develops new ideas and solutions.

This iterative process of building, imagining and reflecting is repeated several times if necessary in order to gain deeper and deeper insights.

The method is suitable for a wide range of applications, including

• Team development → Promoting trust, communication and collaboration.
• Strategy and innovation processes → Developing new business ideas or concepts.
• Conflict resolution → Visualization of tensions and development of joint solutions.
• Organizational development → Definition of visions, values and long-term goals.
• Management and change management → Supporting change processes.

Especially in times of hybrid work or distributed teams, LSP can help to create a common mindset and team identity.

In this workshop, participants are introduced to the LEGO® SeriousPlay® method in theory and practice so that they can apply the method.

An experienced LEGO® SeriousPlay® facilitator has defined the topic of this LSP workshop together with the client in advance. These can be very different tasks, ranging from team collaboration and corporate vision to product innovation, SWOT analysis with LSP or trend analyses are also possible objectives of an LSP workshop.

The participants then use the LSP method to creatively develop the common goal with LSP.

The result of the workshop is documented in a photo protocol, which is made available to the participants.

The LEGO® SeriousPlay® material is provided by KEGON.

Why is LEGO® SeriousPlay® particularly suitable for such team workshops?

1. Everyone is able to speak out

In traditional meetings or brainstorming sessions, a few people often dominate the discussion. LSP ensures that everyone is actively involved, as all participants have to build and explain a model.

2. Creativity and innovation are encouraged

The playful and haptic way of working activates the brain in a different way. This creates new perspectives that often remain hidden with conventional methods.

3. Better collaboration and team dynamics

LSP helps to improve team processes by promoting mutual understanding. Complex problems are easier to visualize and conflicts can be resolved through a shared, more objective perspective.

4. Complex issues become tangible

Instead of just discussing abstract ideas, LEGO models make them physically visible. This facilitates understanding and helps to analyze challenges in a structured way.

5. Sustainable results and decision-making

The models created serve as visual references that last beyond the workshop. Teams can still refer to the results weeks later and build on them.