Start, Stop, Continue

How to Run This Retrospective

1. Set Up the Board: Prepare your retrospective by creating three columns on the board: 'Start', 'Stop', and 'Continue'. This structure provides a clear framework for the team's feedback.
2. Brainstorming - Start: Encourage your team to think about new ideas and opportunities. In the 'Start' column, they should add cards for any new processes, tools, or habits that could benefit the team's workflow and performance.
3. Brainstorming - Stop: This column is for identifying inefficiencies. Ask the team to add cards for activities or processes that are hindering their progress or providing little value. This could be anything from unproductive meetings to outdated workflows.
4. Brainstorming - Continue: Here, the team celebrates what's working. In the 'Continue' column, they should add cards for practices and behaviors that are contributing positively to the project and team morale.
5. Group and Discuss: Guide the team through a discussion of the cards in each column. Use the drag-and-drop feature to group similar cards, which helps in identifying key themes and patterns. Encourage open dialogue to understand the perspectives behind each card.
6. Create Action Items: Conclude the retrospective by translating the discussion into concrete actions. Collaboratively decide on the most critical items to address from the 'Start' and 'Stop' columns. Create a dedicated 'Action Items' column on the board to track these commitments and ensure accountability.

When to Use This Format

• Ideal for teams that prefer a straightforward, action-focused retrospective.
• Effective for regular check-ins, like at the end of a sprint, to maintain momentum and address issues quickly.

Facilitator's Guide

• Foster a non-judgmental atmosphere where team members feel safe being honest, especially when adding cards to the 'Stop' column.
• Keep the discussion focused on processes and behaviors, not on blaming individuals.
• Don't forget to celebrate the successes listed in the 'Continue' column. Acknowledging what works is a great way to boost team morale.