Enter LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® (LSP)—an innovative methodology designed to transform strategic planning and organizational development.
This method serves as a perfect tool for Management Teams and Business Start-ups seeking to approach business model planning in creative and adaptive ways.
1. What is LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY®?
LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® is a powerful tool for engaging teams in strategic thinking and collective decision-making processes.
This hands-on learning method encourages participants to create three-dimensional models using LEGO bricks, which represent abstract concepts and potential solutions. The method’s playful nature makes it invaluable for generating innovative solutions to real issues and enhancing problem- solving skills within corporate training programs and organisational settings.
2. Theoretical Foundations of LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY®
Several scientific theories underpin LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY®, making it an advanced training tool for organisations. Key theories include:
- Constructionism: Developed by Seymour Papert, this theory emphasises the construction of knowledge through building physical models. When participants create 3D LEGO landscapes to represent complex issues, they engage in deeper understanding and continuous learning.
- Play Theory: Playful activities for team building encourage out-of-the-box thinking, fostering a culture of innovation. This is critical in breaking away from conventional communication methods and generating breakthrough ideas.
- Flow Theory: Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi’s concept of “flow” describes a state of complete engagement. LSP sessions often induce this immersive experience, driving focus and innovative thinking.
The method was co-created by Johan Roos and Bart Victor, with significant contributions from Kjeld Kirk Kristiansen, who recognised the need for a culture essential to adaptive strategy and creative methods.
3. The LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® Process in Strategic Planning
The hands-on nature of LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® makes it ideal for strategic planning.
Here’s how this amazing methodology unfolds in practice:
- Setting Clear Objectives: Define what the session aims to achieve, such as developing actionable strategies or refining business goals. Whether the focus is on project management, project planning, or aligning on decision criteria, clarity is key.
- Building Individual Models: Participants construct basic models to externalise their ideas. This step transforms tacit knowledge into tangible models, promoting a stronger sense of understanding. Physical models provide the basis for knowledge exchange and accelerate learning
- Collaborative Model Creation: Teams then combine individual models into a 3D model, fostering a collaborative environment and community within teams. This process builds alignment among team members and encourages creative marketing strategies for business challenges.
- Scenario Planning with Models: By building models in response to future scenarios, teams can explore adaptive strategy options and test different business strategies. The collaborative decision-making process ensures that all perspectives are considered, promoting common understanding and shared commitment among team members.
4. Advantages of Using LSP in Strategic Planning
The wide range of benefits offered by LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® makes it a core tool for organisational development and team building:
- Inclusive Engagement: 100-100 participation ensures every team member contributes. The collaborative work environment built through LSP drives alignment and commitment.
- Visual and Critical Thinking: The creation of models facilitates digital thinking, visual thinking, and agile thinking. Teams can address complex concepts using 3D brick models, enhancing the communication strategy and collaborative culture.
- Enhanced Problem-Solving and Creative Ideas: LSP’s immersive experience develops problem-solving skills and encourages innovative solutions. This method workshops complex scenarios and supports the generation of creative responses to business challenges.
5. Real-World Success Stories
Many organizations, from corporate training providers to educational settings, have embraced LSP’s wide applications. Companies like Samsung and IKEA have utilized LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® to tackle complex environments, align core teams, and foster a collaborative culture essential for growth. In such environments, teams often agree on common goals, generate future decisions, and drive business strategies in unconventional ways.
6. Key Considerations for Effective LSP Sessions
For successful implementation, consider these strategies:
- Engage a Certified Facilitator: Certification training is crucial to guide agile training sessions that align with business model planning tools.
- Create a Safe and Collaborative Environment: An environment where individuals feel free to share and create is essential for innovation methods. Building models allows teams to engage actively and foster community-based models of understanding.
- Tailor to Organisational Needs: Each workshop should cater to specific organisational settings, such as developing strategies for agile project management or exploring new ideas for team development.
7. Embracing LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® for a Future of Strategic Planning
Using LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® for strategic planning goes beyond conventional thinking. It creates a basis for knowledge structures, promotes accelerated learning, and offers invaluable experiences in strategic processes. With its wide range of application techniques, LSP is ideal for corporate culture transformations and creating a culture of innovation.
Interested in learning how the LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® method can help you?
