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In our fast-paced world, teamwork and innovative problem-solving are more important than ever. As project teams tackle complex challenges, methods that promote collaboration and creativity become crucial. One exciting method that has gained traction is LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® (LSP). This engaging approach fosters active participation, accelerating learning in ways that traditional methods often miss.
What is LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY®?
Lego Serious Play is a workshop method that uses Lego bricks as a communication tool for teams. Developed by The LEGO® Group, LSP allows individuals to build and express their ideas through three-dimensional models. This hands-on approach stimulates both analytical and creative thinking, making it easier for team members to share their perspectives.
The process engages every team member, regardless of their usual role, leveling the playing field. For example, a project team working on a new product may use LSP to visualize customer journeys, helping team members see the project from diverse angles and fostering shared understanding.
Enhancing Communication and Engagement
Clear communication is vital in any project. When diverse perspectives collide, miscommunication can happen easily. LSP creates an engaging atmosphere where everyone can voice their ideas without fear of criticism.
When participants build models that represent their insights, they engage both visually and tactically, encouraging deeper reflection. For instance, a team member might craft a model that illustrates a potential roadblock in their project. By sharing this model, they facilitate a discussion where other team members can ask questions and offer solutions, leading to clearer understanding and more cohesive teamwork.
Accelerating Project Team Learning Through Play
Fun can speed up learning. LSP transforms conventional methods by bringing play into the mix. Engaging in play-based activities helps break down mental walls, promoting a relaxed atmosphere that encourages exploration.
In sessions where traditional brainstorming can feel stale, incorporating Lego allows team members to approach problems with a fresh perspective. Research shows that when learning is enjoyable, retention rates can increase by up to 60%. During a recent project kickoff, a company found that using LSP led to a 40% faster alignment on project goals compared to previous methods.
Breaking Down Complex Problems
Complex challenges require innovative solutions. LSP offers a structured yet flexible framework for tackling these issues. By building physical models, teams can break down challenges into smaller, manageable pieces.
For example, a team faced with a tight deadline might use Lego to visualize their work processes. By doing so, they can identify bottlenecks in their workflow. This process encourages critical thinking and promotes solutions that may not arise through regular discussions. By visualizing their challenges, teams often find a 30% improvement in problem resolution times.
Building Trust and Cohesion
Trust is essential for any successful team. LSP not only encourages communication but also fosters trust among team members. Sharing models and ideas creates an environment where individuals feel connected.
As team members exhibit their creativity, they build connections often lacking in more traditional settings. For instance, during an LSP workshop, participants working for a tech startup found that after sharing their Lego models, they were more likely to collaborate on projects, resulting in a 50% increase in successful project completions.
Harnessing Diverse Perspectives
Inclusivity is a core principle of LSP. By ensuring everyone participates, this method taps into a range of perspectives. Each person's unique experiences contribute to a comprehensive understanding of project goals.
In workshops, team members visually represent their viewpoints using Lego. This discussion method can lead to innovative solutions that might not surface in regular brainstorming sessions. A recent study indicated that teams who embraced diverse thinking through methods like LSP generated ideas that were over twice as creative as those from teams using traditional methods.
Final Thoughts
In a world full of complexity, project teams need innovative methods to learn and grow quickly. Lego Serious Play offers a powerful way to boost communication, engagement, and learning. By creating a playful and inclusive environment, LSP reshapes traditional team dynamics, leading to deeper insights and stronger collaboration.
As project teams continue to face challenges, integrating methods like Lego Serious Play can enhance their problem-solving skills while building trust and cohesion. Embracing play can unlock a team's potential to learn, adapt, and succeed.
Consider making LSP a regular practice in your team's routine. The bricks could be the key to unlocking your team’s full potential.
By leveraging LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® , project teams can improve creativity, communication, problem-solving, and collaboration, ultimately enhancing project success and stronger team performance. Organizations that adopt this method can unlock the potential of their teams, foster a culture of innovation, and achieve more effective results.
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Thriving Teams is a learning institute and organizational development company that builds and grows thriving organizations.
With deep experience in both research and practice, we have come to know that when teams learn together, they can thrive together. We help you utilize team learning to ensure every facet of an organization can learn and grow in ways that support their best work and improve organizational success.
Through team learning, we believe that organizations can create cultures that support innovation, better navigate the human elements of teaming, and build team capability to realize new levels of success.
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