Tips & tricks

Add any simple tips you have for improving retrospectives. Can be generated by running a Retrospective Surgery.


 * Split into small groups to narrow down actions (helps with large teams or with quiet members)
 * Use a space without a table
 * Have a backlog of retrospective actions with done / not done next to them
 * Write the output on a flip chart and stick it up in the workspace where all can see
 * Location, location, location - find a good spaces and mix it up so not always in same place
 * Write up the retrospective output including actions and put on a blog/wiki or send round in an email
 * Forward-specting - what can we start doing now
 * Do a 'warm up' exercise to break down any tension and get people in the mood (see below)
 * Food (especially nice food like cakes & biscuits) is an excellent way to make the session more appealing and is a great leveller.
 * Use a facilitator from outside the team (e.g. another team's scrum master)
 * Swap the facilitation role within the team: don't let it fall to the same person (coach, scrum master) each time
 * Plan your retrospectives - don't just turn up and run it the same way each time. Develop a toolbox with exercises.
 * Throw away everything from the retrospective except the retrospective actions. Focus on outcomes, not problems.
 * Create awareness for Retrospective Benefits