The 4L Retrospective is a reflection method where team members identify what they liked, learned, lacked and longed for in a project or period of work. It uncovers opportunities for improvement that can later be translated into concrete actions and improvements.
Step 1: What did you like?
Ask “What did you really enjoy about this project or phase?” What went better than expected? Fill in the positive aspects of the project you’re reflecting on.
Step 2: What did you learn?
Ask “What was a valuable lesson learned?”. Reflect on and share anything you might have learned. Learnings can vary from organisational to technical aspects.
Step 3: What lacked?
Ask “What did you lack during this project or phase?” What could have gone better and was clearly missing? Gather everything that held the team back and was a shortfall.
Step 4: What did you long for?
Ask “What support did you desire or wish for?” Think future oriented, what’s something that you wish that could exist going forward.
