Finding effective methods to foster creative problem-solving skills and enhance critical thinking capabilities is critical for sustained success. One such method that has revolutionized organisational development and problem solving is the LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® (LSP) method.
This unique and powerful tool leverages hands-on experience to enhance creativity, encourage deeper understanding, and drive innovation within teams.
What is LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY®?
LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® is a hands-on, experiential process designed to improve problem-solving capabilities and unlock boundless creativity in a collaborative environment. It is far from a conventional solution.
Instead of relying on traditional communication methods, LSP engages participants in building concise models using LEGO® bricks—both basic bricks and advanced sets like the Starter Kit—to visualise and articulate abstract concepts.
This creative thinking tool helps participants transform abstract ideas into tangible, 3D models, creating valuable insights and actionable strategies that foster a culture of innovation and cohesive team collaboration.
Theoretical Foundations of LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY®
The effectiveness of LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® lies in its solid theoretical framework, which enhances critical thinking skills and promotes rich dialogue among team members. This framework is grounded in several key principles:
- Constructivism and Constructionism: Jean Piaget’s constructivism and Seymour Papert’s constructionism argue that knowledge is constructed through hands-on experience and interaction. The tactile experience of using LEGO® bricks allows participants to build individual models that express complex ideas, facilitating a deeper discussion and collective understanding of topics.
- Hand-Mind Connection: Neuroscience highlights the importance of engaging the hands to activate multiple areas of the brain, driving deeper understanding and innovative thinking. This immersive experience is central to the LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® methodology, enhancing participants’ problem-solving technique and creative process.
- Flow Theory: Developed in the late 1990s, Flow Theory describes a state of full immersion and engagement in an activity. LSP sessions encourage active participant engagement, creating a ‘lean-forward’ environment where focus and creativity flow freely.
How LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® Enhances Problem Solving
Traditional problem-solving techniques often lead to communication gaps and passive participation. LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® breaks down communication barriers and enables breakthrough thinking. Here’s how it fosters effective problem-solving:
- Inclusivity and Equal Voice: The facilitation process ensures that every participant constructs a model and shares their thoughts, creating a safe space for candid communication and collaboration among participants.
- Metaphorical and Concrete Thinking: Participants explore complicated business concepts and complex challenges through 3D models, using brick models to represent both abstract and concrete concepts. This approach leads to deeper discussions and richer dialogue.
- Hands-On Engagement: The hands-on activity keeps team members actively involved, reducing distractions and promoting critical thinking and deeper understanding of complex business goals.
Why LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® Drives Innovation
For innovation to thrive, teams must be in an environment that fosters creativity and inclusivity. LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® promotes a culture of creativity and constructive
dialogue, making it an effective strategy design tool for business innovation. Here’s why it’s a valuable tool for driving creative solutions:
- Breaking Down Hierarchies: The LSP methodology creates a level playing field, eliminating communication gaps and promoting commitment among team members.
- Sparking Imagination: By playing with LEGO® bricks, participants engage in blue sky thinking and explore innovative ideas. The creative learning experience enables people to think beyond conventional solutions and uncover breakthrough ideas.
- Developing Team Cohesion: The approach to understanding and collaboration among team members fosters a cohesive team environment, enhancing team dynamic and strengthening team cohesion.
Practical Applications Across Various Contexts
LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® is a versatile tool, used to address a wide range of organisational challenges and drive comprehensive strategies. It is effective in various contexts, such as:
- Strategic Planning: Teams can use 3D models to visualise strategy development, enabling alignment among team members and building a cohesive team vision.
- Team Building: LSP enhances communication skills, builds trust, and drives collaboration among team members. The immersive experience fosters understanding among team members, even in conflicts within teams.
- Business Innovation: From developing actionable strategies to creative marketing strategies, the method promotes digital thinking and breakthrough thinking in business scenarios.
Steps to Implement LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® Effectively
Maximising the benefits of LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® requires a thoughtful approach and skilled facilitator training. Follow these steps to ensure successful outcomes:
- Engage a Certified Facilitator: A trained facilitator ensures that the sessions in action run smoothly and participants gain key insights. Advanced training is crucial for handling complicated discussions and generating strategic thinking.
- Define Clear Objectives: Establish the purpose of the session, whether it’s for strategic planning, team building workshop activities, or business performance enhancement. A clear objective leads to better problem-solving capabilities.
- Create a Safe, Inclusive Environment: The facilitator should create a safe space that encourages candid communication and active listening, fostering collaboration among participants.
- Allocate Time for Reflection: Reflection is key to developing deep understanding and extracting valuable insights from the models created.
Key Benefits of Problem Solving with LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY®
The benefits of LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® extend across several dimensions, enhancing creative problem-solving abilities and facilitating a culture of innovation:
- Improved Team Collaboration: The method fosters collaboration among team members, strengthening the team dynamic and driving alignment among team members.
- Enhanced Creativity: The hands-on, tactile experience helps unlock latent creativity, empowering participants to generate innovative solutions and adequate solutions to complex challenges.
- Better Business Strategy: By visualising different business strategy scenarios, teams can make informed decisions and develop comprehensive strategies.
Explore how LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® sessions can revolutionise your approach to complex ideas at seriousplaybusiness.com.
Conclusion
In today’s ever-changing business environment, adaptability and innovative thinking are vital for success. LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® provides organisations with a creative activity that fosters collaboration, enhances creative problem-solving skills, and drives innovation.
By embracing this experiential process, organisations can turn complicated business concepts into successful outcomes, driving both creativity and business performance.
Would you like to implement the LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® method into your practice?
