After Action Review
An After Action Review is a structured debrief where a team reviews what just happened by comparing what was supposed to happen with what actually happened, then works out why there was a gap and what to do about it. The group answers four questions in order: What did we intend? What occurred? Why? What do we do next? It is short, focused, and led by the team itself.
✓ Created by former KPMG & McKinsey consultants
What You'll Achieve with the After Action Review Workshop
Real outcomes that transform your team
Improved team performance through actionable insights derived from past experiences.
Enhanced communication and collaboration among team members during the review process.
When to Use the After Action Review Workshop
Perfect for these situations and team challenges
Immediately after a completed project to capture learning while the experience is still fresh.
After significant milestones in a longer project to gather insights before moving on.
How the After Action Review Workshop Works
A step-by-step breakdown of the workshop process
1Setup
Prepare for the AAR by scheduling it shortly after the event, inviting participants, and gathering necessary documentation and data.
2Step 1: Set the Climate
Create a safe environment for open discussion by establishing ground rules and clarifying the purpose of the AAR.
3Step 2: What Was Supposed to Happen?
Establish a shared understanding of the original objectives and plans by discussing what the team intended to achieve.
4Step 3: What Actually Happened?
Discuss the factual occurrences during the event, focusing on key events and using evidence to build a shared understanding of what transpired.
Key Topics Covered in the After Action Review Workshop
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