diverge · Team Building, Problem Solving · 60–120 min · 10-40 people · medium energy
LEGO Challenge
The LEGO Challenge is a team-building activity where participants collaborate to build a LEGO structure, each with a secret individual assignment that introduces constraints and challenges. It fosters communication, problem-solving, and adaptability under pressure.
When to use LEGO Challenge
Use this method when you need to highlight communication breakdowns, explore leadership dynamics, and improve collaborative problem-solving skills within a team.
What it solves
Poor communication leading to inefficiencies, hidden assumptions hindering progress, lack of shared understanding of goals.
How to run LEGO Challenge, step by step
- Divide participants into groups of 5-7 and provide each group with a box of LEGO bricks. Instruct them not to touch the LEGOs yet. (5 minutes)
- Explain the overall task: to build a structure as a team. Emphasize that each person will receive a secret assignment that they cannot reveal. (5 minutes)
- Distribute the pre-printed individual assignments, ensuring participants understand they must keep their assignment secret. (5 minutes)
- Start the building phase. Remind participants of the no-talking rule. Observe team dynamics and interventions. (20 minutes)
- After the building time, have each participant guess the assignments of their teammates. Then, allow them to reveal their own assignments. (15 minutes)
- Facilitate a debriefing session, focusing on the team's experience, communication strategies, and lessons learned. (30-60 minutes)
Materials needed
- LEGO bricks (enough for each group)
- Pre-printed individual assignment slips
- Timer
- Table for each group
Facilitator tips
- Prepare the assignments in advance and ensure a good mix of conflicting and complementary instructions.
- Observe the groups closely during the building phase, noting leadership styles, communication attempts, and problem-solving approaches.
Common pitfalls
- Frustration and conflict arising from the inability to communicate openly.
- Participants becoming overly focused on their individual assignments, neglecting the overall team goal.
- Ensure assignments are clear and not overly complex to avoid confusion.
Variations
- Allow limited communication (e.g., only non-verbal cues).
- Introduce a 'saboteur' role with a destructive assignment.
- Vary the complexity of the assignments based on the group's skill level.
Running it online or hybrid
Consider using a virtual whiteboard and shared document for assignments. Ensure clear communication channels are available for clarification, even if silent.
What it produces
A completed LEGO structure, observations on team dynamics, and insights into individual and group behavior.
Origin
Adapted from Hyper Island — source
Build a session around LEGO Challenge
METODIC places LEGO Challenge inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.