The LEGO Ideas program represents a groundbreaking initiative that bridges the gap between avid LEGO fans and the brand itself. It offers an unparalleled opportunity for enthusiasts to not only showcase their unique designs but also potentially see their creations turned into official LEGO sets. Moreover, the cherry on top? Contributors can earn royalties from the sales of their sets. Here's a comprehensive guide to the LEGO Ideas program.
What is the LEGO Ideas Program? LEGO Ideas is a platform where fans can submit their original designs. Once submitted, other members of the community vote for these designs. Achieving a specific number of votes catapults a design into the review phase, where it has a chance to be transformed into an official LEGO set.
How Does it Work?
Submit Your Design: Begin by building an original LEGO creation. It can be digital (using design software like LEGO Digital Designer) or physical.
Photography: Capture high-quality images of your creation. Ensure they showcase your design's intricacies and angles.
Project Description: Pen a compelling project description detailing your inspiration, special features, and any backstory you've envisioned.
Submit and Share: Once your project is live on the LEGO Ideas website, promote it. Sharing on social media, forums, and blogs can rally support and votes.
From Votes to Production
Achieve 10,000 Votes: To qualify for the review stage, a design must garner 10,000 votes from the community.
LEGO Review Board Evaluation: Designs that hit the 10,000-vote mark are thoroughly evaluated by a board of LEGO designers and marketers for feasibility, brand fit, and market potential.
Production: Winning designs are refined, packaged, and then launched as official LEGO sets available globally.
Earning Royalties
1% Royalty: LEGO acknowledges the creativity and effort of the original designer by offering 1% of the total net sales of the product.
Recognition: Apart from the financial incentive, designers receive special recognition on the set's packaging and in other related marketing materials.
Tips for Success
Adhere to LEGO Standards: Ensure your design is feasible using standard LEGO bricks and doesn't require the creation of numerous new molds.
Stay Original: While deriving inspiration is fine, steer clear of direct copies or slight modifications of existing sets.
Engage the Community: Engage with those who support and vote for your design. Their feedback can offer invaluable insights and enhancements.
Some Success Stories LEGO Ideas has seen numerous success stories since its inception. Sets like the "Ship in a Bottle", "NASA Apollo Saturn V", and "The Flintstones" all sprouted from the imaginative minds of LEGO fans and are now cherished pieces in many collections.
The LEGO Ideas program is a testament to the brand's commitment to its community, offering a genuine platform for fan creations to shine. It's not just about constructing a design, but about constructing dreams, aspirations, and potentially a globally recognized LEGO set. So, whether you're a casual builder or a hardcore enthusiast, your brick masterpiece could very well be the next big thing in the LEGO world!
Ramii