Retro recipe

Generic Retrospective template

Posted on the 13th of September 2024 by

Welcome to the Generic Retrospective template! This flexible guide provides the essential structure for conducting a retrospective. This template is more like a flexible guide, leaving room for the “cook” (you) to add your own flavor and creativity. Think of it as a base recipe for a dish where you can still decide the specific herbs and spices that suit your team’s unique tastes and needs. As a result, this template provides the essential structure, but the final outcome is up to you!

Ingredients

  • Warm-up activity materials: Items needed for a short, engaging activity.
  • Previous action points list: A document or list of the action points from the last retrospective.
  • Discussion tools:
    • A whiteboard, windows, or a digital collaboration tool like Mural to write on.
    • Sticky notes & markers (or digital equivalents).
  • Action points tracker: A document, sticky notes, or an alternative tool to record new action points and assign ownership.

Cooking

Step 1: Warm-up

Conduct a short, engaging activity to break the ice and get everyone in the right mindset. Some great warmups can be found in a number of locations, including our other retro recipes.

Step 2: Evaluating previous action points

  • Review the action points from the last retrospective.
  • Discuss what the team accomplished and what they didn't.
  • Determine what remains to be done to achieve the final goal.

Step 3: Main Part - discussing topics & finding action points

  • Identify and discuss key topics, challenges, and successes from the last sprint.
  • Collaboratively generate insights and find actionable points for improvement.

A tried-and-true method for this is the Lean coffee format, but feel free to explore the key sections of our other retro recipes as well.

Step 4: Committing to action points

  • Decide on the action points to commit to, ensuring action will be taken by the next retrospective.
  • Assign ownership and record the action points in the tracker of your choice.

Final Impressions

This Generic Retrospective template offers a flexible and adaptable framework for conducting effective retrospectives. With its clear structure that leaves room for customization, the template allows each session to be tailored to the unique needs of your team. This approach fosters continuous improvement, accountability, and team cohesion, making it an invaluable tool for any agile team. Happy reflecting! 🌟