How to Run a High-Performing Retrospective
What is a Retrospective?
A retrospective activity involves looking at past successes and failures to learn from them. Retrospective activities at the end of a sprint or when completing a new project are the optimal time to reflect on the goals and challenges faced and what was done to achieve and mitigate them. It can also help you identify any risks that may have surfaced along the way and develop strategies to avoid them in the future.
“We love team retrospective activities. They help us improve our collaboration, promote transparency and create better features.”
- Andrew Charles Edwards (Founder, DesignACE)
Team members need to feel comfortable giving honest feedback during retrospectives. Define the period, discuss topics, and focus on improvements. Create a culture where constructive feedback is given and taken. All involved must be ready and willing to hear the truth without taking anything personally.
The retrospective ensures that everyone can share feedback without one or two people hijacking it. Team members use sticky notes (or a digital platform like Google Jamboard when remote teammates are involved). Each member writes what they like, and the group reads each statement aloud. This ensures everyone’s voice is heard, even those more hesitant…
