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Mini-Figure Magic: How Lego Brings Employee Recognition to Life

  • 3 Min Read

What’s the buzz about lately? It’s all about our new 2024 Lego mini-figure program. 

This isn’t just about stacking blocks; it’s about celebrating each of us in a way that truly reflects our individuality and contributions to our teams, peers and D2L as a whole.  

Imagine receiving a custom Lego mini-figure that represents your unique achievements while fostering connections with your peers. This is a fun and creative approach to recognition that makes us feel appreciated and connected in a memorable way.  

Behind the Scenes: The Making of the Lego Program 

Our Lego program began in 2015 when our Product Development team sought a way to recognize contributions in their department, specifically when a new feature or product was shipped to a customer. They wanted a way to have a lasting, physical memento of their work, as a lot of the work they develop is virtual. That’s where Lego comes in.  

The concept started relatively small: We got every Product Development employee a mini figure and a base with their name on it, and we ordered some bricks every time an employee was part of something that shipped. Over the years, it has become a company-wide recognition program that D2Lers have come to know and love.  

This year, we took the program one step further by introducing more customization to reflect the uniqueness of each D2Ler.  

Recognizing Individuality  

D2L’s Lego program focuses on individuality by allowing everyone to shape and customize their mini-figure mini-fronts to reflect them. Before the launch of this new iteration, every D2Ler received the same mini-figure to represent them. Now, new D2Lers can select the figure that best showcases who they are and what they love. With various facial expressions, customization of features such as skin tone, hair and head coverings, and add-on accessories, each figure becomes a unique representation of who we are. This personal touch celebrates our achievements and helps us see our unique selves reflected in our figures. 

Accessories That Ignite Conversations 

The ability to add accessories that represent our hobbies, pets and passions serves as a fantastic conversation starter. There are many ways to showcase our interests, from sports equipment to books to musical instruments to plants and more. It’s been incredible to hear D2Lers discussing the significance of their accessories around the office. Conversations range from “My Lego dog symbolizes my childhood pet”, to someone choosing an easel to represent their painting hobby. It’s a wonderful way to spark conversations and connect with new, friendly faces during busy work days.  

Celebrating Team Spirit 

Our Lego program promotes teamwork among D2Lers by enabling us to recognize our peers. D2Lers earn bricks based on their team and what is important to them. This could be through receiving blocks from awards, anniversaries, execution of major projects and programs, participation in special events, demonstrating behaviours that align with D2Ls Leadership Competencies and more. It allows us to continually build our Lego towers higher; the possibilities are limitless. 

Creative Expression Through Lego

One of the best parts of the Lego program is the creative expression behind it. Seeing all the fun shapes and sizes that each person’s Lego figure takes on—based on tenure, experiences, awards and more—makes it personable and reflects our unique journeys at D2L. Each mini figure tells a story, showcasing not just individual achievements but also the diverse backgrounds and talents that make D2Lers vibrant. It’s a visual representation of who we are, fostering a sense of belonging and community. Plus, it sparks conversations and connections as we share the inspirations behind our creations and celebrate each other’s milestones together.

Do you want to see more Lego towers? Check out the #LifeAtD2L hashtag on LinkedIn to find more.

If you want to start building your tower and personalizing your mini-figure, check out the open roles on our careers page to find your dream job and start brainstorming what customization you would add to your mini-figure.

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