What is the What? So What? Now What? retrospective?

The What? So What? Now What? framework, developed by Rolfe et al. (2001), is a structured reflection method that helps teams process experiences and plan future actions. This powerful approach breaks down reflection into three clear stages, making it easier for teams to analyze situations thoroughly. In the 'What?' stage, teams focus on objectively describing events and observations without judgment. The 'So What?' phase encourages deeper analysis of these observations, exploring their significance and impact. Finally, the 'Now What?' stage channels these insights into concrete action plans for improvement. This retrospective format is particularly effective for teams dealing with complex situations or when a systematic approach to problem-solving is needed. It helps prevent teams from jumping to solutions before fully understanding the context and implications of their experiences.

What? So What? Now What? retrospective format

What? How would you describe the situation?: Guide participants to focus on facts and observations without interpretation. Encourage them to share specific examples and details about what actually happened or what they noticed. This stage should remain objective and descriptive.
So What? How does this affect us?: Help the team explore the implications and impact of their observations. Encourage them to consider both positive and negative effects on the team, project, and organization. This is where interpretation and analysis happen.
Now What? What do we need to do to move forward?: Focus on creating specific, actionable items that address the insights gained. Encourage the team to prioritize actions and assign ownership. Ensure proposed solutions are realistic and within the team's control.

When to use this retrospective

After completing a significant project milestone or release to systematically analyze outcomes
When facing complex challenges that require structured analysis and problem-solving
During organizational changes to help teams process and adapt to new situations
When teams need to move from surface-level observations to deeper insights and concrete actions

Ideas and tips for your retrospective meeting

Keep the 'What?' phase focused on facts and observations, avoiding interpretation or judgment
Use timeboxing for each phase to ensure balanced discussion across all three stages
Encourage quieter team members to contribute by using round-robin or written submissions
Create clear connections between observations in 'What?' and actions in 'Now What?'
Document actions with specific owners and deadlines to ensure follow-through
Consider using dot voting to prioritize which insights to focus on in the 'Now What?' phase

New to retrospectives? Read our guide on how to run a retrospective →

What? So What? Now What? Retrospective

What is the What? So What? Now What? retrospective?