Hot Air Balloon Retrospective

Hot Air Balloon Retrospective Format

Hot Air

What is making us fly?

This topic focuses on identifying positive forces that drive team success. Encourage participants to think about processes, practices, behaviors, and achievements that contribute to team momentum. Consider both technical and cultural aspects that help the team perform better.

Anchors

What is keeping us down?

Focus on identifying obstacles and challenges that slow down or impede team progress. Encourage honest but constructive feedback, and guide the team to discuss issues that are within their sphere of influence to change.

Shout outs and Kudos

Who do we want to acknowledge?

This is an opportunity to recognize and appreciate team members' contributions. Encourage specific examples of how individuals have helped the team or demonstrated valuable behaviors. Ensure the recognition is genuine and balanced across the team.

When to use this retrospective

• When you want to maintain a positive focus while still addressing challenges in a balanced way
• After completing a significant project milestone to reflect on team dynamics and progress
• When the team needs to identify both enablers and barriers to their success
• When you want to boost team morale by incorporating recognition into the retrospective

Suggested icebreaker questions

• If you could take a hot air balloon ride anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?
• What gives you the most lift or energy during your workday?

Ideas and tips for your retrospective meeting

• Start with the 'Hot Air' section to build positive momentum before addressing challenges
• Encourage specific, actionable feedback rather than vague statements
• Ensure 'Hugs and Kudos' recognizes a variety of team members and contribution types
• Keep a parking lot for items that need further discussion or involve external stakeholders
• Use dot voting to prioritize which items to address first if you have many suggestions