Facilitation · 4 hours to 2 days

LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® (LSP)

A facilitated methodology that utilizes 3D modeling with LEGO elements to externalize internal thought processes and business challenges. It is designed to foster innovation, strategic imagination, and collective commitment by translating abstract concepts into tangible metaphors.

When to use LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® (LSP)

Ideal for complex problem-solving, strategic planning, organizational change management, and team-building scenarios where traditional verbal communication may lead to hierarchical bias or disengagement.

How LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® (LSP) works

Facilitators can integrate LSP into session design as a primary communication vehicle to ensure '100/100' participation, where every participant is equally engaged. It serves as a bridge between individual cognitive insights and group strategic alignment.

Phases of LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® (LSP)

  1. Pose the Challenge: The facilitator poses a building question that has no single right answer, such as 'build a model of your ideal team'. The question must be clear and open enough for everyone to interpret.
  2. Build the Model: Each participant builds a LEGO model in response, thinking with their hands, usually in a few minutes. The facilitator keeps time and encourages people to trust their hands rather than plan.
  3. Share the Story: Each builder explains the meaning of their model to the group, and others ask questions about the model, not the person. Everyone speaks, which gives equal voice to all participants.
  4. Reflect and Consolidate: The group reflects on what the stories revealed and captures insights, often combining models into a shared model or landscape. The facilitator helps turn the insights into shared understanding or next steps.

Key principles

  • Hand-brain connection (Constructionism)
  • Metaphorical representation of business issues
  • 100% participation and commitment
  • Adaptive and evolving strategy
  • Unlocking latent imagination and innovation

Best for

  • Strategic visioning
  • Team identity and alignment
  • Product and service innovation
  • Conflict resolution and organizational development

Considerations

  • Requires specific LEGO SERIOUS PLAY kits for optimal results
  • The quality of outcomes is highly dependent on the facilitator's ability to guide the metaphorical reflection
  • Participants must be willing to engage in 'play' as a serious professional tool

Attribution & sources

Developed by Johan Roos, Bart Victor, and Kjeld Kirk Kristiansen, 1996

Primary source

Design a session with LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® (LSP)

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