Team engagement is no longer just a checkbox on a manager’s to-do list—it’s the bedrock of a successful team. Whether in the classroom, a team building event, or a high-stakes strategy planning session, facilitators are expected to foster creative thinking, enable critical thinking, and spark innovative solutions. One facilitation method stands out as a go-to for this level of engagement: the LEGO® Serious Play® Method.
This original method, built on Analogically-Based Methods and research from Bart Victor, is not just a powerful tool—it’s a valuable tool for deeper understanding, team connection, and meaningful insights.
A Hands-On Way to Foster Real Engagement
At its core, the LEGO® Serious Play® Method is a hands-on, experiential process that uses physical models and metaphorical representations to engage participants fully.
Building Beyond Words
Participants create three-dimensional models—each a model in response to a specific prompt. These individual models and group builds surface key insights into team dynamics, leadership development, and strategic thinking that can’t be accessed through talk alone.
A Safe Space for Ideas Without Fear
In any facilitation setting—be it nonprofit organizations, Remote teams, or executive retreats—psychological safety is vital. Many facilitators use the LEGO® Serious Play® Method because it fosters a safe environment where participants can share ideas without fear.
Reducing the Fear of Judgment
This creative approach replaces traditional brainstorming with reflective practice and co-creation experience. It builds a culture of engagement and an inclusive workplace culture, allowing diverse voices to contribute equally.
Unlocking Creative and Strategic Potential
Unlike other methods, LEGO® Serious Play® transforms abstract goals into physical representations of solutions. It allows facilitators to address complex challenges, whether in organisational development, education interventions, or strategic planning.
Innovative Thinking with Real-World Application
This experiential learning method enables creative potential and problem-solving and decision-making processes to unfold naturally. Participants walk away with subject-level learning outcomes, practical experience, and applicable business solutions.
Deepen Team Cohesion and Understanding
The LEGO® Serious Play® Method enhances team cohesion, active listening, and collaboration. In team visioning sessions, it aligns values and direction, creating a shared learning journey and a collective path forward.
Strengthen Leadership and Team Development
Used globally—from India RegionManager Leadership Capability programs to the Facilitator School in Europe—this method improves team development through strategic thinking and coaching training tools.
A Facilitator’s Secret Weapon
Top professional facilitators, skilled facilitators, and experienced facilitators choose this method because it drives deeper insights, valuable insights, and hidden insights. Whether guiding co-creation processes or addressing organizational culture, the results are robust.
From Classroom to Boardroom
In both education events and high-level leadership development programs, facilitators report increased effectiveness in team building, better decision-making processes, and more impactful workshop experiences.
Fits Every Type of Organization and Session
Whether working with remote teams, executives, educators, or community leaders, the method supports opportunities for collaboration and adapts to all types of sessions: virtual, hybrid, or in-person.
Designed for Diverse Needs
It’s used in training organizations, classrooms, coaching clients, and corporate summits. Its creative nature and playful nature help participants express ideas and address challenges they might otherwise struggle to articulate.
Continuous Learning for Facilitators
Many facilitators adopt this method as part of their own continuous learning journey. Through facilitator training and certification, they learn to guide co-creation processes, host hands-on practice sessions, and support space for participants to explore.
Investing in the Right Tools
While the cost of training facilitators varies, the ROI is clear: empowered teams, improved outcomes, and the ability to offer truly effective leadership through a proven, research-backed method.
Conclusion: A Creative, Powerful Tool for Deep Engagement
The best facilitators don’t just guide conversations—they design creative, experiential learning spaces. The LEGO® Serious Play® Method equips them to unlock innovative thinking, support team building, and inspire a deeper understanding of challenges and opportunities.
Whether you’re addressing organizational challenges, building successful teams, or designing a high-impact learning journey, this method delivers.
Ready to start your own facilitation transformation?
Explore training, events, and facilitation services at Serious Play Business and build your path to engagement, brick by brick.
FAQs
What is the LEGO® Serious Play® Method?
A hands-on, metaphor-based facilitation tool that enhances team engagement, strategic planning, and problem-solving.
How does it help with team development?
By using physical and metaphorical models, teams better understand each other, fostering collaboration and alignment.
Who uses this method?
Proficient facilitators, training teams, project managers, educators, and coaches across all industries.
Can it be used in online settings?
Yes. It’s adaptable for hybrid sessions, online tools, and remote collaboration with digital kits.
What kind of results can I expect?
Improved communication, deeper insights, aligned goals, and a renewed sense of engagement in your team.
