Think with your hands — an introduction to the LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® methodology

Unleashing Creativity with LEGO: Exploring the Serious Play Methodology

In the realm of creative problem-solving, the tactile experience often remains underutilized. Today, I want to introduce you to a powerful tool that merges play with professional development: the LEGO® Serious Play® methodology. This approach isn’t just about building fun and impressive models; it’s about unlocking a deeper level of creativity and engagement in solving real business challenges.

The LEGO Serious Play methodology is rooted in the idea that hands-on, minds-on learning produces a deeper, more meaningful understanding of the world and its possibilities. The method encourages participants to express themselves through building models, facilitating a process where every member of a team, not just the most vocal, shares their ideas and insights. This can lead to increased understanding and a more cohesive group dynamic.

During a LEGO Serious Play workshop, each participant builds their own 3D LEGO model in response to questions posed by a facilitator. These questions are designed to dive deep into the subjects that matter most to the business. As each participant builds, they articulate their thought process, reasoning, and insights, which are then shared with the group. This sharing phase is critical as it allows for each individual’s understanding and perspective to be integrated into the collective knowledge of the team.

One of the most compelling aspects of LEGO Serious Play is its versatility in addressing various types of business scenarios. From strategic development to team building and innovation, the methodology provides a playful yet profound way to explore ideas, test scenarios, and foster a supportive team environment. Each session is a journey from individual storytelling to a collective strategy, built one brick at a time.

Incorporating LEGO bricks into professional development might seem unconventional at first. However, the physical act of building models engages the brain in ways that traditional brainstorming or discussions might not. It taps into the visual and kinesthetic learning styles, making it easier for participants to express complex ideas and abstract concepts.

For those interested in exploring this method, numerous resources are available, including starter kits like the LEGO Windows Exploration Kit and books that delve into the nuances of facilitating and benefiting from LEGO Serious Play. These tools provide an excellent starting point for anyone looking to integrate this innovative approach into their professional toolkit.

As we continue to explore and expand the boundaries of what it means to solve problems creatively, LEGO Serious Play stands out as a beacon of innovation. It reminds us that sometimes, the best way to unlock a sophisticated idea is to take a moment to play.

For more detailed insights and resources on how you can incorporate LEGO Serious Play into your business strategy or team development sessions, check out the foundational texts and kits available, and join the growing community of professionals finding serious solutions in playful environments.

Did you know that you can use your hands to help you come up with your next breakthrough idea? Introducing the LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® method an strategy that leverages the power of construction, storytelling and metaphors to develop business and innovation strategy.

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