Agile Retrospectives Quotes

“Choose activities that support the goal of the retrospective. If there’s no way to discuss the activity that makes a connection between the activity and the work, omit it. We’re not against games and simulations—in fact we use them often—when they serve a purpose and move the retrospective forward. Icebreakers, energizers, and games that don’t relate to the work don’t fit in retrospectives. There’s only so much time, so don’t waste it with activities that are “just for fun.” Have fun, but have a purpose.”
― Esther Derby, Agile Retrospectives: Making Good Teams Great

“Hold it.” Then say, “I want to hear what you have to say, and I can’t when you’re shouting. Can you tell us why without shouting?”
― Esther Derby, Agile Retrospectives: Making Good Teams Great

“Group dynamics include team member interactions and emotions. You aren’t responsible for other people’s emotions, but as retrospective leader, you are responsible for keeping the session productive. And that means you need to be prepared to handle emotional interactions and situations.”
― Esther Derby, Agile Retrospectives: Making Good Teams Great

“The first time you attempt a retrospective that goes beyond asking “What went well?” and “What should we do differently?” it will take time to prepare.”
― Esther Derby, Agile Retrospectives: Making Good Teams Great

“Useful goals for retrospectives include the following: Find ways to improve our practices. Discover what we were doing well. Understand reasons behind missed targets. Find ways to improve our responsiveness to customers. Rebuild damaged relationships.”
― Esther Derby, Agile Retrospectives: Making Good Teams Great

“Then ask everyone in the room to speak. When someone doesn’t speak at the beginning of the retrospective, that person has tacit permission to remain silent for the rest of the session.”
― Esther Derby, Agile Retrospectives: Making Good Teams Great

“Dana followed a specific structure: Set the stage. Gather data. Generate insights. Decide what to do. Close the retrospective.”
― Esther Derby, Agile Retrospectives: Making Good Teams Great