The Best Paper Award of the 14th International Conference on Design, User Experience, and Usability
has been conferred to
Mengyuan Chen, Xipan Li, Yuqi Wang, Yuxin Jiang, Huiwen Li, Wei Liu, Mingze Sun, Liwei Wang,
Xinpeng Wang, Jialin Wei, Xinyu Yang, Yinan Yang, Ziwei Yang, Xiangyi Zhu (Beijing Normal University,
P.R. China), Jing Ma (University of Oxford, UK), Mengzhen Xiao, Taiyu Huang (The LEGO Group, P.R. China),
Jingpeng Jia (Beijing Union University, P.R. China), Ruonan Huang and Wei Liu (Beijing Normal University and Southern University of Science and Technology, P.R. China)
for the paper entitled
"Building Beyond Blocks: User-Centered Innovations in LEGO Design for Unleashing Creativity and Play"
Ruonan Huang
(presenter)
Best Paper Award for the 14th International Conference on Design, User Experience, and Usability, in the context of HCI International 2025, Gothenburg, Sweden, 22 - 27 June 2025
Certificate for Best Paper Award of the 14th International Conference on Design, User Experience, and Usability presented in the context of HCI International 2025, Gothenburg, Sweden, 22 - 27 June 2025
Paper Abstract
LEGO, a globally recognized brand with a long history in the building block industry, has significantly influenced the way children and adults engage in play and creativity. However, as technological advancements reshape consumer expectations for interactivity, intelligence, and innovation, the LEGO Group faces challenges from emerging competitors, rising costs, and sustainability concerns. This study addresses these challenges by identifying research gaps and constructing a theoretical framework for LEGO’s innovation design through a mixed-methods approach. Scenario-based observations revealed natural user behaviors and motivations, while in-depth interviews uncovered users’ emotions, expectations, and pain points. Persona modeling informed targeted design strategies, and petal diagram analyses linked product attributes to user needs. The c-box framework highlighted market strengths and weaknesses, and the jobs-to-be-done (JTBD) theory examined user motivations from a task-oriented perspective. Rapid usability testing pinpointed key areas for improvement. Findings suggest that integrating technologies like virtual reality (AR) and augmented reality (VR) can create immersive, engaging experiences, while adopting sustainable materials aligns with global trends and enhances the brand’s image. Building a global user community could foster creativity, collaboration, and brand loyalty. This study offers academically and practically valuable insights to support LEGO’s innovative leadership, addressing consumer demands while exploring pathways for growth in a competitive market.
The full paper is available through SpringerLink, provided that you have proper access rights.