The Value of Looking at the Past
Enhance project outcomes by conducting honest team retrospectives using a simple framework to discuss positives, changes, and neutral aspects for continuous improvement.
A great project completed does not just mean, hey we made it. Phew! An even better project concludes with a thoughtful look back.
I love a good inventory, not just because I am an accountant at heart and I love a good mindless hunt and peck session. There is so much value at getting honest about the good, the not so good and the somewhere in between. I remember at one of my favorite companies, we incorporated retrospectives as a way to take stock on how we were executing key initiatives.
Looking at the past does not always mean there is pain involved. I know from experience in my own personal journey, that there are definitely implications that if you dig you may not like what you find. It’s not so black and white (also a topic to delve into later). If you remember to bring in balance, openness and honesty, you will be amazed at how the conversations transpire.
Not sure how to start an inventory with your team? Here is a simple framework to get the conversation started.
As the leader of the team, remind everyone that this is a place where healthy and thoughtful conversations are encouraged. The point is to drive towards solution and change. Nothing about the project is off limits to discuss but be impeccable with their words. What does that mean? Be thoughtful, yet direct. Leave out the desire to attack or deflect or defend.
Pick a neutral person (neutral to the outcome of the project) to facilitate the discussion.
Have the facilitator make three columns on a white board or something largely visible to the team. The three columns are Pluses, Deltas, and Meh.
Pluses are what someone loved about the project, where it felt strong, something they would love to see on another project
Deltas. Change. If they could change something about how the project went or an aspect of the project, it would be X.
Meh. What was something about the project that wasn’t amazing but wasn’t in dire need of change, just so-so. These are hard at times when doing this exercise the first couple of times. But it’s an excellent way to move out of black and white thinking.
Pro Tip. The facilitator should start by asking for a couple of pluses. Really start off on a positive foot, bring the group together and then when it feels right, if there is a lull, ask the probing question about whether there is a Delta. Pick someone who is not afraid historically to be direct and honest.
P.S. This discussion will likely go in a lot of places, so the facilitator may want to time box the meeting, have a parking lot, etc. End on a really healthy note. Make sure to put aside time in the same meeting to think about solutions. It could go something like this…“Of all of the deltas, what is the one thing everyone would love to change the most.” See what you hear. And then, use that one to practice coming up with a set of solutions on the spot.
Good luck! If you are finding this works, amazing! The first time may feel clunky and awkward. That’s okay. It’s new. It’s navigating maybe something difficult that not everyone does easily. Hang in there. You will find something positive about the experience. If not, that’s okay too. There are lots of ways to do this. I gave a very simplified way in. But as with everything in life, there are nuances and people.
Feel free to reach out and let me know how it went! Or, even ask clarifying questions.
Christina | christina@itsthepod.com