Green ideas and creativity in action: innovation and sustainability with Lego

The innovative SPECTRA workshop took place in Ruse, Bulgaria on 12.04.2024, organized by the Business Innovation Center Innobridge and the Ruse Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The event brought together over 15 companies from Ruse’s diverse business landscape. From clothing manufacturers and construction companies to TV and motoped parts producers, participants engaged in a stimulating exploration of green innovation and creative decision making using the unconventional yet powerful tool of LEGO Serious Play.

The huddle featured a special guest, Engineer Vladi Velikov, who challenged traditional decision-making approaches with an innovative method: LEGO Serious Play. This unique facilitation technique utilizes LEGO bricks as a storytelling and problem-solving tool. By building physical models and collaboratively discussing them, participants tap into their creativity and unlock new perspectives on complex challenges.

The focus of the Ruse webinar was on “green ideas and creativity in action,” particularly within the context of sustainability. Companies across various industries are increasingly recognizing the importance of adopting environmentally friendly practices. This webinar aimed to equip participants with the tools and inspiration to navigate this shift towards a greener and more sustainable future.

LEGO Serious Play proved to be a powerful catalyst for fostering creative thinking and collaboration. By manipulating the LEGO bricks, participants were able to:

• Visualize Green Solutions: Companies from different sectors in Ruse business community explored how to integrate sustainability into their operations. Clothing manufacturers brainstormed ways to use recycled materials, while construction firms envisioned eco-friendly building techniques. This visual representation of ideas facilitated open discussion and encouraged participants to think outside the box.
• Break Down Silos: The hands-on nature of LEGO Serious Play created a collaborative environment where participants from different departments and companies could work together. This cross-pollination of ideas fostered a sense of shared purpose and led to the emergence of innovative solutions.
• Challenge the Status Quo: Engineer Velikov’s approach to decision-making with LEGO challenged traditional brainstorming methods. By stepping away from whiteboards and presentations, participants were able to approach problems with a fresh perspective, leading to more creative and sustainable solutions.

The Ruse workshop served as a successful example of how businesses can leverage innovation and creativity to embrace sustainability. By utilizing unconventional tools like LEGO Serious Play, companies can unlock their employees’ full potential and pave the way for a greener future.

The SPECTRA project, through events like this workshops, helps empower businesses in Ruse to embrace innovation and creativity and navigate the path toward a more sustainable future. By fostering collaboration and creative problem-solving, SPECTRA also equips companies with the tools they need to thrive in today’s ever-evolving business landscape.