Effective communication is essential for organisational success, yet many teams struggle with meaningful engagement, collaboration and problem-solving. This is especially true in increasingly digital workplaces where online interactions often replace face-to-face communication.
A practical way to improve communication by making conversations more visual, inclusive and reflective is the LEGO® Serious Play method, according to Hanlie Degenaar, senior speech and language therapist and manager of the Care2Kids division of the Centre of Health and Human Performance (CHHP) at the North-West University (NWU).
LEGO® Serious Play is used in corporate and professional environments to strengthen team dynamics, strategic thinking and collaboration. Hanlie explains that the method is a facilitated process in which participants use LEGO® bricks to build models representing their ideas, experiences, perceptions and challenges.
“People build models and then tell stories about them. It helps them externalise tacit knowledge, the things they find difficult to say, especially in meetings and team environments,” she explains.
Building communication through hands-on thinking
The method is based on research exploring the connection between people’s hands and their minds, encouraging participants to think while building.
“Traditional workplace discussions often rely on abstract language, which can limit engagement and understanding. With the LEGO® Serious Play method, communication becomes concrete, visual and supported by rich narratives. That often results in deeper and more meaningful conversations.”
Hanlie explains that although digital technologies have made communication easier and more accessible, they have also introduced new challenges. “The quality of communication often suffers when non-verbal elements are removed.”
She says these non-verbal aspects help people connect, supporting engagement, creativity and innovation. Although digitisation has increased communication frequency, it has often weakened its quality, creating a need for methods that help teams reconnect more authentically.
Engagement one brick at a time
Professionals are often hesitant when first introduced to LEGO® bricks in a business setting, but Hanlie says this reticence usually disappears quickly.
“We begin with simple, enjoyable exercises that help people become comfortable and curious. Participants build models using a few bricks and explain how their creations relate to a concept or challenge. The process encourages creativity, discussion and collaboration.”
According to Hanlie, one often sees smiles, laughter and people helping one another within the first few minutes. Teams become engaged and willing to explore ideas together very quickly.
The process is guided through structured questions that move participants from simple activities to deeper reflection. Hanlie says several elements contribute to the method’s effectiveness. Metaphors allow physical models to represent broader ideas, while specific storytelling protocols ensure equal participation. “Everybody builds, everybody participates and everybody tells their story.”
Barriers come down
Research has also shown that the method promotes psychological safety. Participants often feel more comfortable sharing ideas and perspectives than they would in traditional meetings. “The barriers come down and engagement increases. You often hear the voices of people who would normally remain quiet during discussions.”
This approach also reduces the influence of organisational hierarchy. “Everyone receives the same set of bricks, regardless of their position or seniority. People discuss the models and ideas rather than focusing on the individuals behind them.”
Deliberate periods of reflection allow participants to organise their thoughts and consider the contributions of others, leading to more authentic and meaningful communication.
“Better communication leads to better outcomes. When teams communicate more effectively, organisations often see improvements in collaboration, problem-solving and overall performance.”
Beyond organisational settings, Care2Kids has successfully used the method with families, particularly where communication challenges exist between parents and children. “Sometimes families struggle to resolve issues through conversation alone. Building together creates a different way of communicating and often helps break down barriers.”
Hanlie adds that the method also has value in educational and training environments. By creating opportunities for reflection, storytelling and shared understanding, LEGO® Serious Play offers a practical tool for strengthening communication across a range of settings.
For more information, email IPWinfo@nwu.ac.za or visit https://health-sciences.nwu.ac.za/chhp. To learn more about Care2Kids visit https://health-sciences.nwu.ac.za/chhp/care2kids
To view an interview of Prof. Pieter Kruger with Hanlie, visit: https://youtu.be/LZiKkuMZGwg?si=HGc3xfiGLhcOPpP2
Hanlie Degenaar
