Methodology
Rather than talking about theory, this page showcases real examples of how organisations, educators and facilitators have used LEGO® Serious Play® to tackle complex challenges, improve collaboration and create meaningful outcomes.
Explore the case studies below to see how the methodology has been applied in different settings and discover what’s possible when people think with their hands.
Turning Difficult Discussions Into Productive Dialogue
Some conversations are difficult because they involve conflicting perspectives, uncertainty or sensitive topics. LEGO Serious Play provides a neutral framework that allows participants to explore complex issues through models rather than direct confrontation.
By focusing on the stories and insights represented in the models, individuals often feel more comfortable sharing perspectives that might otherwise remain unspoken. This can lead to greater understanding, stronger relationships and more constructive outcomes.
Whether discussing organisational change, culture, diversity and inclusion, or stakeholder priorities, LEGO Serious Play helps groups navigate difficult conversations in a structured and respectful way.
Using LEGO Serious Play to Explore Complex Social Challenges
LEGO Serious Play is increasingly being used beyond organisational settings to explore wider social issues and community challenges.
In this example, the methodology was used to examine social mobility in the UK, helping participants visualise barriers, opportunities and the relationships between different parts of the system. The process enabled people from different backgrounds and perspectives to contribute equally and develop a shared understanding of a complex topic.
The case demonstrates how LEGO Serious Play can be used to support systems thinking, community engagement and meaningful dialogue around issues that affect society as a whole.
Building Stronger Teams From Day One
When new teams are formed, it can take time for trust, understanding and effective collaboration to develop.
LEGO Serious Play accelerates this process by helping team members explore their strengths, experiences, expectations and working styles in a highly engaging way. Participants gain a deeper understanding of each other while building shared awareness around how the team can work together effectively.
This approach is particularly valuable during onboarding, team formation, mergers, project kick-offs and periods of organisational change.
1 June 2026
Most team building promises more than it delivers. LEGO® Serious Play® works differently — because everyone builds, everyone shares, and the conversations that follow tend to be more honest than teams expect.
LEGO® Serious Play® can be applied across a wide range of settings, from leadership development and team building to coaching, education and strategic planning. If you’re wondering whether the methodology is suitable for your organisation, team or challenge, these frequently asked questions explore some of the most common use cases and applications.
LEGO Serious Play is commonly used for leadership development, strategic planning, team development, coaching, learning and organisational change.
Yes. Many organisations use LEGO Serious Play to facilitate challenging conversations because the models help participants discuss sensitive topics in a more constructive way.
No. The methodology is widely used in education, coaching, community engagement, charities, government organisations and social impact projects.
Absolutely. Team formation is one of the most popular use cases, helping groups build trust, understand each other and establish effective ways of working.
Yes. The methodology is highly effective for creative problem solving, innovation workshops and exploring new opportunities.
LEGO® Serious Play®, the Minifigure and the Brick and Knob configurations are trademarks of the LEGO® Group, which does not sponsor, authorize or endorse this website. SERIOUSWORK® respects and aligns with the the LEGO® Serious Play® trademark guidelines.
LEGO® Serious Play® © 2024 The LEGO® Group.
SERIOUSWORK® uses the LEGO® Serious Play® method described in the LEGO® Group Open Source Guide made available by LEGO® under a Creative Commons licence ‘Attribution Share Alike’
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