Description Long

Lego Serious Play is built on the idea of purposefully engaging the hand–brain connection. As around 70 to 80 per cent of our brain cells are connected to our hands, linking thought processes with physical activity is believed to support deeper understanding. The aim is not only to visualise ideas, but to make them more tangible through active, metaphorical construction – essentially, thinking with your hands. The method also harnesses the benefits of play, such as emotional motivation and the flow state it can create. Lego Serious Play is designed to promote creativity, improve communication, involve the knowledge of all participants, and foster shared understanding.

Illustration

Preparation

• A large number of Lego or Duplo bricks is needed; figures and base plates are also useful, though not essential. Fixed building sets are less suitable than standard bricks combined with small figures.
• Define a clear goal or guiding question for the workshop.

Execution

The method can be applied with both groups and individuals. Ideal group sizes vary: the following guide refers to four to eight people, while other sources suggest eight to twelve. In all cases, the group requires a facilitator.

The process usually consists of three main phases:

1. Challenge: A question or problem is presented for participants to explore through model building (e.g. “What does our ideal team look like?”).
2. Build: Each participant builds a model that symbolises their thoughts and solutions.
3. Share: Everyone presents their model and explains its symbolic meanings. The facilitator ensures the discussion stays focused.

The models can also be expanded or combined to develop shared solutions or visions.
Photograph the models and summarise the key insights in writing.

Hints from experience

• The guide at the following link explains the basics, areas of use, and concrete ways in which Lego Serious Play can be applied – whether individually or in groups. The approach can be expanded and adapted as needed: https://www.eveosblog.de/2016/05/31/lego-serious-play-anleitung-grundlagen-beispiele-uebungen/
• The method is particularly well suited to the association phase (Opening 2), where it can be used to generate further ideas (the guiding question should still be broad and exploratory) and to support deeper reflection.
• Note: Do not mix different Lego sets.

Tools list

• Photo camera

References

https://www.eveosblog.de/2016/05/31/lego-serious-play-anleitung-grundlagen-beispiele-uebungen/