Build a Boat

At-a-Glance

Build a Boat is a half-day program (3.5 hours) and can be facilitated indoors or outdoors at almost any location.

Teams of 4-5 receive instructions, design parameters and building supplies, then develop a design concept and construction plan. Next, teams build the boats from cardboard, nylon sheeting, and duct tape. Once built, they are shared with the larger group. Hopefully, they are attractive and seaworthy, because each boat must convey one team member safely across a body of water. Races are set up with boats competing all together or in individual heats (if space is limited). We’ve done this in lakes, ponds, oceans and swimming pools all around the US.

We complete the adventure by debriefing the day’s experiences and drawing parallels to workplace dynamics.

The Facilitators’ Role

Prep

• Review all pre-program communication & instructions in detail.

Logistics

• Releases: collect and review for skipped signatures, cross-outs and missing dates; communicate with lead facilitator as needed.
• Supplies: distribute team backpacks, cardboard and other materials.
• Safety: close open utility knives, pick up litter, keep water areas safe (ensure life jackets are worn, if applicable).
• Photos: take pictures throughout program, action shots of teams racing their boats on the water and, most important and often forgotten, a final large group photo.

Facilitation

• Lead facilitator introduces the program.
• Be a super star! Be proactive and anticipate needs. This is not a time to socialize with facilitators; our clients perception of our involvement in the program and our professionalism will be higher if you engage with the teams.
• Facilitators float, coach and encourage teams during the build stage, clarifying instructions and observing. You may be a timekeeper or possibly a note-taker.
• Lead facilitator wraps up program by gathering teams to show case, judge and race the boats, followed by a large group debrief.

Clean-up

• Boat disposal plan is pre determined prior to program and dependent on the location. Hotels often ask for boats to be stacked in a designated area pool side. Open water areas typically have dumpsters available. Many materials are recyclable and they do not come loose in the water. Pack supplies for return shipping.

Why Build a Boat is Such a Great Program!

• Groups learn about resource sharing and allocation, cycle time, collaboration and brainstorming.
• It helps teams become better innovators by igniting their creative energy as they dream and build a novel creation while the clock ticks.
• Moving through the stages of “product development,” they’ll renew their excitement and commitment while collaborating in a fun, lively setting.
• It can be done on a beach, around a swimming pool, or at park with a lake or pond, so teams have a lot of flexibility about their program location.