Anchors & Engines

This retrospective will help your team sail towards success!

Anchors & Engines is a dynamic retrospective activity where teams pinpoint hindrances ('Anchors') and accelerators ('Engines') in their recent work, complemented by assessing and improving their tools, processes, and resources through 'The Captain's Compass'.

In discussing Anchors, encourage team members to delve into specific aspects impeding progress, whether they are internal processes, communication barriers, or external factors. 

By identifying these anchors, the team gains a clearer understanding of the hurdles they face.

Example: Constant scope changes slowed us down this sprint, forcing rework and impacting our timelines.

Following the exploration of anchors, shift the focus to Engines—elements propelling the team forward. This part of the discussion should highlight successful processes, effective communication, collaborative efforts, or any positive factors contributing to the team's momentum. 

Recognizing and reinforcing these engines creates a foundation for building upon success and fostering a positive work environment.

Example: Daily stand-ups fueled collaboration; quick updates kept us aligned and accelerated progress.

"The Captain's Compass" introduces a proactive dimension to the retrospective. Encourage the team to collectively assess their tools, evaluating their effectiveness and identifying any gaps. Consider not only the tools in use but also whether they are utilized to their full potential. Simultaneously, evaluate existing processes to identify areas for improvement or optimization. 

This self-evaluation ensures that the team is well-equipped to navigate challenges.

Example: Our outdated project tool hampers coordination; let's explore a more efficient system for smoother navigation.