What Is LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY®? Discover the Method That’s Changing Team Workshops
Explore how LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® transforms team dynamics through hands-on workshops that enhance collaboration, creativity, and communication.
LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® (LSP) is a hands-on method that transforms team workshops into interactive sessions using LEGO® bricks. It helps teams visualise ideas, solve problems, and build trust faster than traditional methods. Here's what you need to know:
- What it does: Turns abstract ideas into physical models, improving communication and understanding.
- Why it works: Encourages equal participation, reduces misunderstandings, and fosters open discussions.
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Key uses:
- Planning and decision-making with 3D models.
- Resolving conflicts through metaphorical building.
- Boosting creativity by breaking conventional thinking.
- How it’s structured: Guided workshops with certified facilitators, following a 4-step process from simple builds to complex discussions.
LSP is ideal for tackling business challenges, enhancing teamwork, and unlocking new perspectives. Ready to try it? Start with a certified facilitator and the right LEGO® kits to get the most out of your session.
Key Principles of LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY®
Physical Learning Through Building
At the heart of LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® is its hands-on approach, often described as "thinking with hands." This method taps into the brain's ability to process ideas through physical activity. Researchers from the Imagination Lab Foundation explain it like this:
"One of the roles of the hand is to shape how we think. If we move our hands or make gestures to help us think, we can assume that using LEGO materials to construct physical representations of ideas, concepts, and models of strategy might generate new content."
In simpler terms, building with LEGO bricks helps turn abstract thoughts into something tangible. And here’s a fun fact: just eight LEGO bricks can be combined in 102 million different ways! This incredible flexibility allows participants to create metaphorical models that represent even the most complex ideas. By giving form to thoughts, this process opens the door to deeper discussions and fresh perspectives.
Model Sharing and Discussion
Once the models are built, the next step is sharing them. This phase is where individual ideas come together to form a collective understanding. The models act as conversation starters, breaking down communication barriers and encouraging open dialogue. Teams use these visual tools to explore problems and brainstorm solutions collaboratively.
This isn’t just about talking; it’s about connecting on multiple levels - cognitive, social, and emotional. That’s why this method is so effective for tackling complicated organisational challenges. Everyone gets a chance to contribute, and the models help make even tough conversations feel more approachable.
Full Team Participation
One of the standout features of LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® is its ability to ensure that every voice is heard. Donna Denio, from Team Dynamics Boston, highlights this aspect perfectly:
"The highly structured LSP process design guarantees that every person in the workshop participates equally."
This structured format, paired with skilled facilitation, ensures that no one dominates the conversation and that all ideas are considered. The result? Stronger solutions and quicker trust-building among team members. This approach is particularly valuable in today’s workplaces, where collaborative efforts have skyrocketed in importance. By creating an environment of psychological safety - a key ingredient for effective teamwork - LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® helps teams thrive.
Workshop Structure and Flow
4 Main Workshop Steps
LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® workshops are designed to follow a step-by-step process, moving from basic building tasks to more intricate metaphorical models. This structured approach encourages deeper engagement and helps teams tackle problems together effectively. The process is carefully crafted to engage participants through visual, auditory, and kinaesthetic methods, ensuring everyone is actively involved. However, the success of this flow depends heavily on skilled facilitation, which turns these steps into meaningful results.
Workshop Leader Guidelines
Once the process is outlined, the role of a facilitator becomes crucial. A good facilitator leverages the workshop's multi-sensory nature to maintain energy and ensure that every participant has a voice.
"Our trainings are so much more than an instructional session on LEGO® Serious Play®; our trainings are leadership development programs." - SERIOUSWORK
Here are the key responsibilities of an effective facilitator:
- Setting the Foundation: The first step is creating an environment where participants feel at ease sharing their ideas. This involves establishing clear ground rules and explaining how LEGO® bricks serve as tools for metaphorical expression.
- Maintaining Flow: Keeping the session engaging while allowing enough time for participants to build and share their models is essential. This requires strong time management skills and the ability to transition smoothly between different stages.
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Guiding Discussion:
"We prepare our graduates to become professional leaders and facilitators of all kinds of outcome-oriented meetings (including those without LEGO bricks)." - SERIOUSWORK
Facilitators must steer conversations towards the workshop's objectives, ensuring discussions remain productive and focused.
Many organisations prefer working with certified facilitators who have completed the Foundation Training Programme. This training equips them with the skills needed to lead workshops effectively. The programme covers:
| Training Component | Focus Area |
|---|---|
| Core Process | Fundamental methodology and principles |
| Application Techniques | Strategies for practical application |
| Supporting Theories | Research and theoretical foundations |
This thorough training ensures facilitators are well-prepared to guide teams, keep participants engaged, and achieve actionable results.
What Is LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY®?
Team and Leadership Uses
The hands-on, physical modelling at the heart of LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® offers a dynamic way to tackle planning, resolve conflicts, and encourage imaginative thinking within teams.
Planning and Decision-Making
LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® turns abstract planning into something tangible by using three-dimensional models to simplify complex business challenges. This interactive process benefits teams in several ways:
| Planning Aspect | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Vision Creation | Teams construct models to visualise and shape their strategy. |
| Participation & Commitment | Encourages full team involvement and builds commitment. |
By making strategies more concrete, this method not only clarifies goals but also helps prepare teams to address potential internal disagreements.
Team Conflict Resolution
When it comes to resolving conflicts, LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® provides a structured way to approach sensitive issues. By building models that symbolise thoughts and emotions, team members can discuss challenges more objectively.
"LEGO® Serious Play® Method creates a structured environment where participants communicate visually, reducing misinterpretation and defensive reactions while promoting psychological safety." - Seriousplaybusiness.com
This method is particularly effective because it:
- Encourages indirect communication, fostering a sense of psychological safety.
- Transforms abstract tensions into concrete, manageable discussions.
- Promotes empathy and understanding through storytelling.
In addition to addressing conflicts, LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® is a powerful tool for unlocking creativity and breaking away from conventional thinking.
Team Creativity Sessions
LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® inspires fresh ideas by pushing teams to think beyond the ordinary. Through metaphorical building exercises, it disrupts traditional thought patterns and encourages new perspectives.
The process supports organisations in two key ways:
| Creative Aspect | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Idea Generation | Individuals build models to explore challenges and spark new ideas. |
| Shared Reflection | Teams refine and expand on ideas through collaborative exploration. |
Getting Started with LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY®
Workshop Setup Guide
Setting up a successful LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® workshop requires thoughtful preparation and the right materials. The first step is choosing the correct LEGO® kits based on the workshop's goals and the number of participants. Here's a quick guide to help you decide:
| Kit Type | Recommended Use | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Starter Kit | Basic workshops for individual use | 1 person |
| Identity and Landscape Kit | Longer workshops (3+ hours) | 10–12 participants |
| Window Exploration Kit | Introductory group exercises | Small groups |
| Connections Kit | Exploring complex relationships | 10–12 participants |
Make sure the workshop space is well-lit, comfortable, and has enough table space for everyone. You’ll also need some wall space to display and discuss the models participants create.
Finding Qualified Leaders
In the UK, it’s easy to find skilled LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® facilitators through recognised training programmes. To ensure quality, look for facilitators who have completed official LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® training, such as those offered by the Association of Master Trainers in the LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® Method.
For external facilitation, experts like Sean Blair and SeriousWork are well-regarded in the UK. When choosing a facilitator, consider factors like:
- Certification: Ensure they’ve completed a recognised training programme.
- Industry Experience: Look for facilitators familiar with your sector.
- Testimonials and Case Studies: These can provide insight into their effectiveness.
- Specialisation: Some facilitators excel in specific aspects of the methodology.
Once you’ve secured a qualified facilitator, their expertise will guide the session, but the real impact comes from how you act on the outcomes.
After the Workshop
To make the most of your workshop, document the key decisions and establish clear timelines for turning insights into action. Staying connected with certified facilitators for follow-up sessions can be invaluable. These follow-ups help teams address new challenges, reinforce improved communication, and track progress toward their goals.
If your organisation plans to hold regular sessions, investing in your own equipment can save money over time. The LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® Starter Kit, available for £29.99, is an affordable way to get started.
Conclusion
Building on the principles and strategies we've explored, let's delve into the key benefits of LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® (LSP) and how to get started with this powerful approach.
Main Benefits
LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® redefines team development. Studies reveal that LSP workshops help teams build trust and reach consensus up to 2–3 times faster than traditional methods.
Some of its standout strengths include:
- Fostering deeper connections through hands-on, collaborative activities
- Encouraging empathy among team members, improving understanding and collaboration
- Boosting psychological safety, a factor Google highlights as critical for team success
How to Get Started
If you're ready to tap into the potential of LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY®, here are the steps to set it in motion:
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Secure Expert Leadership
Work with certified facilitators who specialise in leadership development. Their expertise ensures the workshop runs smoothly and delivers meaningful results. Continued support for implementation is also key. -
Prepare for the Workshop
Find a venue that’s accessible and meets UK standards. Assemble all necessary materials and set up spaces for both individual and group activities. -
Follow Through Post-Workshop
Capture key takeaways and agreements from the session. Plan follow-up meetings to keep the momentum going, and take time to celebrate the team's progress and achievements.
"LSP is a facilitated thinking, communication and problem-solving method for use with groups. It uses LEGO bricks to build stories about the intangible ideas you work with in your business and brings them into the physical world through the use of metaphor and play." – Richard Gold, Founder, Bulbb
FAQs
How does LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® ensure everyone contributes equally in workshops?
LEGO™ Serious Play™ offers a space where everyone’s voice matters. Through hands-on building and storytelling, this method invites all participants to share their perspectives, no matter their position or level of experience.
By following a structured process, it ensures that every team member gets a chance to contribute, levelling the playing field and encouraging collaboration. This not only helps dismantle traditional hierarchies but also inspires creativity and fosters deeper involvement from the entire group.
What should I consider when choosing a certified LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® facilitator?
When choosing a certified LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® facilitator, it's crucial to verify that they’ve completed an official certification programme. This ensures they’re equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to apply the method’s principles effectively during sessions.
It’s also worth looking into their workshop experience, familiarity with your industry or team’s specific needs, and their ability to foster an engaging and inclusive atmosphere. A great facilitator will tailor the process to align with your objectives, helping your team reach impactful results.
Can LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® be used for virtual team workshops, and how does it work?
Yes, LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® works beautifully for virtual team workshops. To make this possible, participants can have LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® Starter Kits delivered to their door before the session, ensuring everyone has the tools they need to dive into the activities. A trained facilitator then leads the session through video conferencing, keeping the experience seamless and engaging.
Even in a virtual setting, these workshops are highly effective for activities like team building, creative problem-solving, and enhancing communication. By blending hands-on model building with structured discussions, remote teams can collaborate, exchange ideas, and tackle challenges together in an engaging and interactive way - no matter where they’re based.