The Lean Solutions Podcast Play as a Tool for Continuous Improvement
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Dec 2, 2025 In this engaging discussion, Alex Suchman, CEO of Barometer XP, shares insights on leveraging play for workplace improvement. She explains how play can enhance trust and accountability while addressing communication dynamics that often lead to conflict. Alex introduces a playful drawing exercise to highlight different processing styles and stresses the importance of intentional design in play activities. She also discusses ‘relational waste’ and offers techniques to convert play into tangible outcomes that boost team performance.
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Purposeful Play Beats Token Fun
- Play at work should be purposeful: fun is a side effect, not the goal.
- Use play to uncover communication gaps, build curiosity, and practice different interactions.
Bowling Didn’t Build Bonds
- An accountant team went bowling to bond and the activity failed to create interaction.
- Alex cites this to show well-intended outings can be ineffective without intent.
Run A Short Visionary Drawing Drill
- Try the Visionary drawing game: one person describes an image while others draw from instructions.
- Use a short timer and observe what details people needed to understand instructions.