Teamwork

The Pyramid Game

At the Egyptian Sand and Gravel Company you’re tendering for the Pharaoh’s pyramid. Can you come in on budget and be creative enough to get the contract?


How it works

A sketch map shows teams the possible sites for building a pyramid and the location of the stone quarries. The team brief explains that the pyramid must be completed before the Pharaoh dies and, as he has been feeling ill lately, there is some urgency. Teams have a number of crucial decisions to make: whether to build a single large pyramid or two small ones, which stone quarry to use and on which site should they build? At the same time they must work out how long it’s all going to take and how much it will cost. In addition a scale model must be built to show the Pharaoh what he is getting for his money and a jazzy sales slogan must be composed. Finally teams present their plans to the Pharaoh - along with all the other contenders. The cheapest quote for building, within the time, wins.

What it does

An ever-popular, simple-to-run exercise that looks at basic teamwork skills. Teams are fully engaged in the scenario and presentation time has led some conference centres to lose tablecloths and breadbaskets! Ideal as a starter to teamwork, leadership and managing time.

Customer feedback

  • Opens up all sorts of training points for discussion.

    – P. Attwood, Thomas Cook

  • Memorable and fun. The learning points will stay long after the course - and enhances the Trainer's reputation.

    – J. Goode, Kerobi Performance Management