I recently facilitated a demonstration session on the high value of using the LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® method. The purpose of the session was to expose experienced facilitators who have many years of experience in organizational development to a new method in real time to give them a sense of how the methodology happens in action.
We obviously also wanted to promote our facilitator training program to encourage the leaders in the room to join our community of users and apply these skills in training sessions and other hands-on experiences for their stakeholders and clients.
We wanted to ensure that they also understood that there are so many layers to the process up to an advanced training level.
What is LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY®?
LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® is an innovative, experiential process designed to enhance innovation and business performance.
Through the use of LEGO® bricks, participants can express their ideas and explore various business scenarios in a playful yet meaningful way.
This technique is grounded in the belief that hands-on, minds-on learning fosters a deeper, more meaningful understanding of the world and its possibilities.
Goal of My LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® Demonstration
The main aim of my demonstration was to showcase how the LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® process can facilitate creative thinking and improve teamwork. I wanted to provide a platform for participants to experience firsthand the power of learning through play and see the methodology in action.
They would then see and experience how project managers, management consultants, academics and training providers use the method in so many ways.
Preparing for the Demonstration
I used the small explorer bags which for this purpose of showing the practical skills needed by facilitators were ideal.
It was more than sufficient for the Learning & Development professionals and the consultants present to gain an insight into the process and how the facilitator training sessions work.
Here’s a link to the LEGO® official site where you can see the size of the bags:
Facilitating the LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® Demonstration
During the session, I began by explaining the foundations and principles of the LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® method. I emphasized the importance of creating a safe and inclusive environment where all participants feel comfortable expressing their ideas through this hands-on approach.
Next, I introduced a prompt or challenge for the participants to explore using LEGO bricks through individual model-building and as part of skills building.
This could be a business scenario, a teambuilding exercise, or any other topic relevant to the group’s needs. I encouraged participants to build their individual models and then share their stories with the rest of the group.
As the facilitator of this training event / demonstration, my role was to observe, ask open-ended questions, and encourage participants to reflect on their models and experiences.
I facilitated group discussions where participants could share insights, ask for clarification, and build upon each other’s ideas.
Throughout the session, I made sure to maintain an atmosphere of curiosity, collaboration, and respect so that participants would come to realise the creative potential of the method.
I emphasized that there are no right or wrong answers in LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY®, and that every participant’s perspective is valuable.
Key Takeaways from the Demonstration
The LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® demonstration was a huge success. Participants were highly engaged and enthusiastic about the method. They were keen to learn more about how the certification classes would work and what the training journey would be.
Here are some of the key takeaways from the session:
- I crafted activities that would challenge the participants but also be enjoyable. Each activity was designed to progressively build on the last, ensuring a cohesive learning experience.
- Preparing for different levels of participant engagement was essential. I developed strategies to encourage shy participants and maintain the momentum of more enthusiastic ones.
- As participants arrived, their reactions to the setup and the LEGO bricks were mixed, ranging from curiosity to excitement, which set a positive tone for the event.
- The demonstration provided valuable insights into how groups work together and how creativity can be sparked in a collaborative setting.
- This experience also honed my facilitation skills, particularly in guiding diverse groups, listening actively, and prompting reflection among participants.
- After the skills building phase, there was a moment where I was concerned that the participants might not be able to switch into metaphorical thinking – and fortunately the pace of the session helped them maintain a sense of flow.
We need to get back to real life and so the group needed some form of outcome – such as action plans or notes on what to do next. This helped to embed the insights they had gained.
I obviously highly recommend applying the LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® method to anyone looking to inject creativity and engagement into their professional or educational environments.
It’s more than just play – it’s a transformative tool for learning and growth!
Here are some FAQs that we receive:
What is LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® used for?
The LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® process is used for team building, problem solving, and strategy development, helping teams to communicate more effectively and unleash their creative thinking.
Can LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® be applied in remote settings?
Yes, with adaptations for digital collaboration, the LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® process can be effectively conducted in remote settings, using virtual meeting tools and home LEGO® kits.
How do I get certified in using the LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® process?
There is a training journey to achieve certification through one of the training providers on the market.
Serious Play Business is one of the most affordable and high-quality providers internationally. Here’s what one of our students has to say:
“This course surprised me. I didn’t expect it to be so detailed and easy to follow. I have now designed my own session plan and my first workshop with a client is coming up shortly”. Management Consultant, Poland.
For more information follow these links:
Information on our certification courses:
More information about LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY®:
