LEGO® Serious Play® and Systems Thinking

LEGO® Serious Play® is an incredibly valuable tool for systems thinking. While the original Build Level 3 application “Real Time Strategy” is now perceived by leading practitioners as a flawed approach, new Build Level 3 applications are unlocking vital conversations.

New Build Level 3 system models applications deliver a powerful method for understanding complex systems.

How LEGO® Serious Play® Supports Systems Thinking

Making Systems Visible

LEGO® Serious Play® provides a tangible and visual way to represent complex systems. By building models of systems, participants can externalise their understanding and make it easier to share, discuss, and explore.  This can be especially helpful when dealing with intangible concepts or systems with many interconnected parts.

Identifying Key Elements and Relationships

The process of building system models encourages participants to identify the key elements of a system and the relationships between them.  In Build Level 3 workshops, participants build a shared model of a desired future state, then identify and build “agents” that represent the elements of the system. They then connect the agents to the vision and to each other, exploring the nature of the connections and how they respond to change.

Exploring System Dynamics

LEGO® Serious Play® Build Level 3 allows participants to explore the dynamic nature of systems. By manipulating the models, participants can simulate different scenarios and see how changes in one part of the system affect other parts. This can help them to understand the potential consequences of different actions and to develop more effective strategies for managing complex systems.

Facilitating Dialogue and Reflection

LEGO® Serious Play® Build Level 3 creates a safe and playful environment for dialogue and reflection.  Participants are more likely to share their ideas and perspectives when they are engaged in a hands-on, creative activity. The models serve as a shared point of reference, helping to ground the conversation and to ensure that everyone is on the same page. Reflection and insights stages throughout the process to deepen participants’ understanding of the system.

Promoting Collaboration and Ownership

Build Level 3 is a highly collaborative process. By working together to build and explore system models, participants develop a shared understanding of the system and a sense of ownership over the insights that emerge.  This can be crucial for building buy-in and ensuring that the insights are translated into action.

Benefits of Using LEGO® Serious Play® for Systems Thinking

Enhanced Communication

LEGO® Serious Play® enables three modes of communication: visual, auditory, and kinaesthetic. This makes it easier for participants to express themselves fully and to understand each other’s perspectives.

Deeper Understanding

The hands-on, experiential nature of LEGO® Serious Play® leads to a deeper and more meaningful understanding of systems. Participants are more likely to remember and internalise the insights that emerge from the process.

Increased Engagement

LEGO® Serious Play® is a fun and engaging way to explore complex systems. Participants are more likely to be motivated and enthusiastic when they are actively involved in the learning process.

Improved Problem-Solving

LEGO® Serious Play® can help groups to identify root causes of problems, to explore potential solutions, and to develop more effective strategies for managing complex systems.

Conclusion

LEGO® Serious Play® offers a powerful and engaging way to engage in systems thinking. By making systems visible, facilitating dialogue, and promoting collaboration, LEGO® Serious Play® can help groups to develop a deeper understanding of complex systems and to make more informed decisions.

Find out more about Build Level 3 classes

Or book a call with our master trainer Sean Blair to discuss its relevance to you.