Retro Rundown

What is it

A structured, facilitated conversation that helps a team reflect on a completed activity or event by comparing what was expected with what happened and identifying concrete improvements.

Why use it

Refine processes and strengthen what’s working.
Improve performance against specific objectives.
Discuss challenging topics constructively (e.g., “what isn’t working well”).
Build shared understanding to better analyze issues and decisions.

When to use it

After any completed activity or event—large (final presentation, end-of-year deliverable) or small (sponsor check-in, weekly team sync). The sooner after the activity, the better.

Level

Beginner

Outcome

Evaluate

Group Size

4+ people

Suggested Time

45+ minutes

Retro Rundown Worksheet

How to do it

STEP 1

Event Data: Complete the basic information about the event, project, or activity.

STEP 2

Project Check-in: Each team member creates a sticky note with their name. Choose an icon that reflects how you’re feeling about the project and place it under your sticky. Invite everyone to share a brief explanation.

STEP 3

Timeline: Create a high-level timeline of key milestones to establish a shared baseline and surface what worked, what didn’t, and why.

Pro tip! Focus on the most important milestones of your work.
Add the start date on the left and today’s date on the right (replace the text in the yellow boxes).
As a group, choose 3-5 key milestones and add them to the white boxes above the timeline. Prioritize decision points and major actions—not just outcomes.
As a group, discuss and capture additional context and details below the timeline.