I know many of our readers are interested in the development of Lead User Lab, a new initiative by LEGO to capture project and product ideas from the LEGO fan community, evaluate their potential, and bring them to life. You can read our previous discussions on the topic at the following links: LEGO Lead User Lab Launches in August, and LEGO Lead User Lab Questions & Answers. During the upcoming Skærbæk Fan Weekend starting on Friday, September 27, there will be special sessions and activities for Lead User Lab that members of the LEGO fan community can participate in. The itinerary for the event gives us more information about Lead User Lab and what it means for LEGO fans, so here is a quick glimpse of what is planned for the weekend.
➡ LEGO LEAD USER LAB PITCHING SESSION: If you already have a project or idea what you would like to pitch to the LEGO Group, this is your chance to meet LEGO representatives face to face and discuss if your idea is a fit candidate for the Lead User Lab innovation funnel. If yes, then it’s time to explore how to get to the next stage, which is idea incubation/stretching. The Lead User Lab team created the following helpful page on how to prepare a pitch (click on image below for larger view). Please note that this weekend is not the only opportunity where you can share your projects or ideas. Submissions will be evaluated on an ongoing basis through the Lead User Lab portal (not yet available).
➡ LEGO LEAD USER LAB WORKGROUPS: There will be four workgroups during Skærbæk Fan Weekend to get feedback, insights and inspirations from the LEGO fan community about topics that are very relevant for Lead User Lab. Each of the workgroups will last for up to an hour and LEGO fans will have a chance to share their ideas, examples, and needs.
Workgroup #1 will focus on technology enabled free-building, including using LEGO physical technology, LEGO Powered-Up, GBC, and more. Oliver Wallington and Louis Elwood-Leach from LEGO Product Technology will join the Lead User Lab team for the discussions. Workgroup #2 will focus on customization and personalization with LEGO, including self-expression, DIY approaches, techniques, as well as tips and tricks. Workgroup #3 is about using LEGO for arts and crafts, and the interests, passions, and needs of the community in regards to working on LEGO art and craft projects. Workgroup #4 will focus on the type of storage and transportation solutions LEGO fans currently use and would like to see in the future.
➡ LEGO LEAD USER LAB PRESENTATION: As Lead User Lab is still very new, there is also going to be a general presentation about the initiative with a questions and answers session.
If you are going to be in Denmark this weekend, consider participating in Skærbæk Fan Weekend (you can learn more about the event here). And if not, just knowing what’s on the agenda allows LEGO fans to get a better understanding of Lead User Lab and the direction it’s going. This is sort of like watching LEGO Ideas unfold in its early days when it was still called LEGO CUUSOO. The more LEGO fans pay attention and participate, the better Lead User Lab can work with and fulfill the needs of the community.
What do you think? How do you like the idea of the Lead User Lab? Is there any ideas, products, innovations, etc. that you think would be a good fit for the program? And what do you think of the workshop topics? Feel free to share and discuss in the comment section below!
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Okay, it’s starting to make more sense. So they are looking for things using Lego for other audiences (arts and crafts like Lego Forma), integrating electronics and apps, customization, and storage solutions. I think all of these areas have untapped potential. I like it.
I just hope in terms of electronics they are not going to introduce more apps. I’m very concerned that they are making sets that are dependent on apps with limited lifespan and support. I would, however like them to integrate light and sound more. Those can be controlled with traditional switches and buttons.
Admin, do you know anyone who is already pitching their ideas and products? I’m just curious who is going to this event and would love to follow their progress.
I do know of some people who are planning to attend and talk with the team, but I rather wait to hear from them sharing how was their experience. Lead User Lab is still very new, but once things are more solid I’m sure we will get more information. So stay tuned! 🙂
They really should have these workshops in the US too. And Asia, and other parts of the world. But at least in the US, because that’s where their largest customer base is. They can’t expect a startup company to fly all the way to Denmark just to pitch an idea.
Lead User Lab is still very new. If it works out, I’ sure there will be other workshops and even online channels to communicate with the team.
Are they going to do a report about this event? I would also like to learn what transpired. Does Lead User Lab has a website or at least social media?
There will be a Lead User Portal where people can submit projects and ideas, but it is not live yet. My guess is that there is going to be a report on the event. I will let you guys know if and when that happens.
I do hope that something good will come out of this. I especially want a proper lighting system, and a better, smaller power functions. Lego’s own storage solutions are always too expensive, so I will probably skip those even if they look good. I just want them to continue making good sets and that’s all.
Yes agreed with @TomTom! It’s awesome to read this blog about lego…
Hey admin, can i meet you in person? if don’t mind 🙂 i hope you would not ignore this request.
Sure, if you go to LEGO conventions we can meet up. 🙂