Lego's "Brick" series (and the clones) has remained unchanged 60 years on

[parkerch]

Lego just celebrated their 60th anniversary. But their "Brick" series (and clones) has remained the same design and engagement system, 60 years on. Could there be a revolution on such type bricks?

 

 For adults who buy and play the toy bricks, nostalgia could be the main reason; but there are no conflicts with utilizing new designs/technology to the objects of nostalgia. 

One of the best examples would be the VolksWagen Beetle. V W completely re-engineered their new Beetle, while incorporating some of the styles/impressions associating to their old Beetle, ending up with great success. Had they continued with the exact same technology and style of their old Beetle, it would have proven a disaster. 

Another great example would be Levis' jeans, which was originally designed for mine workers, and focusing on function only. Since then, many competitor jeans makers come to totally changed the entire culture of jeans, by revamping on the styles, fabric etc, while yet still retaining the characteristics of the good-old-jeans. Had Levis remain locked to their old, function-oriented design, they would have long disappeared from the market.

The same can be said about the Lego type toy bricks. Check out the following link for a great idea:  http://www.strongniche.com.tw/news/163.html

[sadowsk1]

I wouldn't fix a wagon that isn't broken.

[parkerch]

So having been said by the titans of the past during their heydays.  Examples abound - Kodak, Nokia, K-Mart, Pan-Am, just to name a couple of.

[Huskers1236]

While the "brick" hasn't really changed in those 60 years, Lego as a whole has transformed immensely into what it is today. 

[Guest TabbyBoy]

If LEGO changed their bricks, it would bite them in the arse I think

[comicblast]

I think one of the great things about LEGO bricks is that they remain unchanged over x amount of time, which means that you can keep adding, and adding to your collection, and still use the same bricks. LEGO changing it, seems to go against a culture that they have developed around their products - that each and every element that you receive from them is compatible with each and every element that has been made. In addition, LEGO's motto has always been "Only the best is good enough!" which suggests that there was a flaw in their first design, or could be a flaw in the new design.

[parkerch]

Well, no artificial product/design is flawless.  Still, if a new design emerges proving to be better in terms of colors, locking strength, durability, versatility; and yet 100% compatible with the Lego "brick" series (even with "Duplo" series), wouldn't it put Lego bricks as the second best?  Check this link out: http://www.strongniche.com.tw/news/163.html

[akohns]

What is this guy, a paid spokesperson? Talking up this other "brand" around the watercolor

 

"That Funke is some kind of something" - Tobias

 

[Quacs]

Well, no artificial product/design is flawless.  Still, if a new design emerges proving to be better in terms of colors, locking strength, durability, versatility; and yet 100% compatible with the Lego "brick" series (even with "Duplo" series), wouldn't it put Lego bricks as the second best?  Check this link out: http://www.strongniche.com.tw/news/163.html

 

I appreciate your zeal for this new system.  Entrepreneurs are the fuel of the global economy.

 

Unfortunately, Lego isn't selling a brick system or an interlocking assembly any more - that ship sailed long ago.  Today, they sell themes - City, Star Wars, Ninjago, etc. - within a building system that's been incorporated into and accepted by the modern toy market over the span of 60 years.  Look at Lego brick bins - do they sell?  Sure, but they don't sell anywhere close to Lego's themed sets.  Kids (and adults) want that new Sensei Wu character, or that Lone Ranger train they just saw in the movie, not a new piece that connects bricks differently. 

 

This idea might have a chance if the new technology can somehow pair with a theme that wouldn't be possible to create with Lego's current part catalog.  Unfortunately this will be VERY tough sledding since Lego's part catalog is extremely extensive, Lego has some of (if not the) best licenses on the market.

 

Good luck with your new business idea, and make sure your bricks are equal in quality and finish to Lego bricks.  I think that's the single worst aspect of Mega Bloks, Kre-o and other knock offs, and definitely discourages brand shifting.

[akohns]

Well, no artificial product/design is flawless.  Still, if a new design emerges proving to be better in terms of colors, locking strength, durability, versatility; and yet 100% compatible with the Lego "brick" series (even with "Duplo" series), wouldn't it put Lego bricks as the second best?  Check this link out: http://www.strongniche.com.tw/news/163.html

Might I add, lego bricks have changed considerably in the last 60 years, they have gotten way stronger, better colors, brighter finish, etc. They just still connect the the same way. But lego comes out with new parts constantly that connect in new ways. It's going to be hard to compete with their experience, supply chain, low cost mass production, licensing power and pop culture icon status.

[CNH1974]

Might I add, lego bricks have changed considerably in the last 60 years, they have gotten way stronger, better colors, brighter finish, etc. They just still connect the the same way. But lego comes out with new parts constantly that connect in new ways. It's going to be hard to compete with their experience, supply chain, low cost mass production, licensing power and pop culture icon status.

 

I agree with the exception of the bright colours. Today's bricks seem slightly duller compared to those of ten years ago. Especially the yellows & greys.