Agile Retrospectives Workshop

Learn how to choose and execute a really good retrospective, including choosing an appropriate technique.

This is an advanced continuing education course that is a complementary addition to the Scrum Master role.

Variety in retrospectives and keeping it human and engaging are key elements to running a successful, effective retrospective that leads to discovery and improvements. Through hands on exercises, this workshop will provide practical experience in choosing an appropriate retrospective technique, and how to execute it to drive positive change for both the team and the organization.

Note: This course is available to be completed in two half-days or one full day.

WHO IS THIS COURSE FOR?

This course is intended primarily for Scrum Masters, Project Managers, or those who will be facilitating Retrospectives.

By successfully completing this course, you will be able to:

• Know how to run a good retrospective.
• Understand what biases might affect Retrospective results.
• Know the importance of neutrality and the “Facilitator’s Stance”.
• Learn alternative retrospective practices and how to identify what approach is suitable given the environment, team maturity, and surrounding circumstances.
• Learn the power of commitments and Kaizens (improvements).
• Utilize at least six different Retrospective approaches.

No prerequisite formal training required, however it is recommended that an attendee be either a practicing Scrum Master or Project Manager with at least 6 months experience, or that they have successfully achieved a globally recognized Scrum Master certification such as the Registered Scrum Master® (RSM) course.

Here are some recommended learning suggestions for before the class:

• “The Agile Manifesto” – www.agilemanifesto.org
• “Agile Retrospectives: Making Good Teams Great” by Diana Larsen
• “Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking” by Susan Cain

Welcome, Logistics & Expectations

Part 1 – Purpose of a Retrospective

Retrospective Prime Directive

Defining Outcomes

Continuous Learning and Improvement

Focus on the Team, not Just the Product

Part 2 – Creating a Safe Environment

Leading Retrospectives

• The Facilitator's Stance
• Influence and Bias
• Extroverts and Introverts
• Ensuring Fair and Balanced Engagement

Dealing with Uncomfortable Topics and Extreme Circumstances

Part 3 – Choosing and Using a Retrospective Technique

Team Maturity

Initiative Life Cycle

Different Retrospective Techniques:

• Setting the Stage
• Gathering Data
• Generating Insights
• Deciding on Action
• Closing the Retrospective

Part 4 – Wrap Up

Factors to Consider

Lean Coffee