LEGO: Innovation, Strategy, and Culture: Key Bricks for Business Success

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Innovation is more than just a buzzword—it's the catalyst that drives business transformation, growth, and sustainability. Yet, in the pursuit of innovation, many companies focus solely on technology, overlooking a crucial element that powers true innovation: culture. In my WSJ Bestseller Fearless Innovation, I discuss how successful organizations are those that integrate both strategy and culture to fuel innovation at every level. And LEGO is a perfect example of this approach.

Having led innovation and emerging technologies at global brands like Cisco, IBM, Amgen, and Dell, I’ve seen firsthand how culture and strategy can create an environment where innovation thrives. As a former managing director at Cisco’s Global Co-Innovation Center, I drove strategic change across industries and markets, all while championing a culture that embraced creativity, agility, and collaboration. LEGO's journey demonstrates that combining innovation strategy with a robust culture of innovation is the key to lasting success.

LEGO Innovation: Beyond the Product

When we think of LEGO, we often think about their iconic plastic bricks. But LEGO's innovation is far beyond product development. In Fearless Innovation, I emphasize that true innovation is a comprehensive approach that integrates technology, partnerships, and business models. LEGO’s innovation strategy is a testament to this holistic approach. Their ability to expand into new markets—such as film, video games, and adult-focused products—has been crucial to their continued success. The company has capitalized on licensing iconic franchises like Star Wars and Harry Potter, creating experiences that resonate across generations.

LEGO’s approach to innovation is aligned with the principles I discuss in Fearless Innovation—it’s not just about the latest technology, it’s about creating systems that empower creativity and foster collaboration at every level. LEGO’s strategy proves that organizations that align innovation efforts with their business goals, while tapping into market trends and consumer desires, will sustain long-term growth.

LEGO Strategy: Adapting to Changing Times

In today’s fast-paced world, companies must be able to adapt to shifting consumer demands and market trends. LEGO’s strategy has been rooted in its ability to evolve in the face of changing times. LEGO’s 13% revenue increase for the first half of the year, amidst a broader industry slowdown, highlights the power of a proactive innovation strategy. By expanding its target audience, forging new partnerships, and continually adapting to consumer behavior, LEGO remains a leader in the toy industry.

As I mention in Fearless Innovation, a forward-thinking strategy anticipates future trends and positions companies to take advantage of new opportunities. LEGO’s success demonstrates that companies can remain competitive by continuously evaluating market needs, adapting strategies, and investing in innovation across their entire business.

LEGO Culture: The Heart of Innovation

In Fearless Innovation, I explain that the real magic of innovation happens when you build a culture that nurtures creativity, risk-taking, and experimentation. LEGO’s culture of innovation is what sets it apart. It’s not just about creating products; it’s about creating an environment where ideas are encouraged and valued, and where employees are empowered to challenge the status quo.

At Cisco, I led an effort to embed innovation into the company’s DNA, ensuring that every team, from leadership to frontline employees, was aligned around a common vision of transformation. Similarly, LEGO's success comes from fostering an innovation culture that empowers employees to experiment, collaborate, and continuously improve. This culture of trust and collaboration drives LEGO’s ability to stay ahead of the curve.

How I Help Organizations Build a Culture of Innovation

In my work as a keynote speaker and innovation strategist, I help organizations build and sustain cultures of innovation. I take the principles discussed in Fearless Innovation and translate them into practical, actionable strategies. Whether it’s developing innovation roadmaps, encouraging cross-functional collaboration, or helping leadership foster a mindset of creativity, my approach is always tailored to the unique needs of each organization.

By embedding innovation into the fabric of an organization, companies can create environments where new ideas are nurtured and transformed into breakthrough solutions. Just as LEGO has created a culture that encourages creativity, I work with organizations to ensure that innovation is not just a goal but a core value.

The Future of Innovation: Staying Ahead of the Curve

As I write in Fearless Innovation, the future of business belongs to those who embrace innovation not just as a strategy but as a mindset. Whether it’s adopting new technologies like AI or enhancing customer experiences, organizations that embed innovation into their culture will be the ones that lead. LEGO’s ability to continually evolve, adapt, and embrace new opportunities proves that businesses can stay ahead of the curve by creating a strong foundation of innovation.

Ready to Ignite Innovation in Your Organization?

If you’re ready to build a culture of innovation and develop a strategy that drives lasting change, I invite you to reach out. Let’s work together to create a tailored approach that will empower your team, transform your business, and position your organization for long-term success.