Plus Delta Retrospective

Simple two-column format for identifying successes and opportunities for change

Try this retrospective live

Plus

What went well in the last sprint?

Daily standups have been more focused and efficient lately
The new code review process helped us catch issues early
Great collaboration between design and development teams
Delta

What changes could we make?

We could benefit from more regular knowledge sharing sessions
Need clearer acceptance criteria in our user stories
Would like to reduce context switching between projects

What is the Plus Delta retrospective?

The Plus Delta retrospective is a straightforward yet powerful approach to team reflection that focuses on two key aspects: what's working well (Plus) and what needs to change (Delta). Originally adapted from academic feedback methods, this format helps teams identify current strengths while targeting specific areas for improvement. This simple two-column structure makes it particularly effective for teams new to retrospectives or when time is limited. The 'Plus' column celebrates successes and reinforces positive practices, while the 'Delta' column (using the mathematical symbol for change) constructively addresses opportunities for improvement without the negative connotations of traditional 'pros and cons' formats. By maintaining a balanced view between positives and potential changes, teams can have productive conversations that acknowledge progress while driving continuous improvement. The format's simplicity helps keep discussions focused and action-oriented, making it easier to identify concrete next steps.

Plus Delta retrospective format

Plus

What went well in the last sprint?

Guide the team to identify specific successes, practices, and behaviors that contributed to positive outcomes. Encourage concrete examples rather than vague statements. This helps establish what practices should be continued and potentially expanded.

Delta

What changes could we make?

Focus on constructive suggestions for change rather than complaints. Encourage participants to phrase feedback in terms of opportunities for improvement and to be specific about what could be different. Help the team prioritize changes that would have the most impact.

When to use this retrospective

  • When you need a quick, straightforward format that's easy for everyone to understand
  • For teams new to retrospectives who need a gentle introduction to structured feedback
  • When time is limited and you need to focus on essential feedback
  • During periods of change when you want to maintain what's working while identifying necessary adjustments

Suggested icebreaker questions

  • What's one positive change you've noticed in the team since our last retrospective?
  • If you could instantly change one thing about our work process, what would it be?

Want a warm-up your team plays, not just answers out loud? Browse free icebreakers →

Ideas and tips for your retrospective meeting

  • Keep the focus on actionable changes rather than dwelling on problems without solutions
  • Encourage balanced participation by asking quieter team members to share their thoughts first
  • Use dot voting to prioritize which changes to tackle first if many items are identified
  • Maintain a positive tone by framing deltas as opportunities for improvement rather than criticisms
  • Document and follow up on agreed changes in the next retrospective to ensure continuity

Frequently asked questions

What is the Plus Delta retrospective?
A simple two-column format where teams list what's going well (Plus) and what should change (Delta), using a neutral, forward-looking term instead of criticism-focused labels. It suits teams new to retrospectives or short on time.
When should you use a Plus Delta retrospective?
Use it when you need a quick, easy-to-follow format, for teams new to retrospectives, when time is limited, or during periods of change where you want to keep what's working while identifying adjustments.
How is Plus Delta different from a pros and cons list?
Delta replaces "cons" with a neutral term for change, using the mathematical delta symbol. This framing keeps feedback constructive and action-oriented rather than pointing out negatives.
What is a Plus Delta chart?
A Plus Delta chart is a two-column feedback tool. The Plus column (+) collects what worked and should be repeated. The Delta column (Δ) collects what should change next time. Draw a line down a whiteboard or flipchart, or open a two-column board online, and fill both sides at the end of a meeting, sprint, class or event. It takes 5–10 minutes.
Why is it called Plus Delta?
Delta (Δ) is the Greek letter that math and science use for change. Calling the second column "delta" rather than "minus" asks people what they would change, not what went wrong. That small reframe points the feedback at the next attempt instead of blame for the last one, which is why the format works well with groups that are wary of criticism.
How do you run a Plus Delta session?
Give everyone a few minutes to add notes to both columns before anyone speaks. Read the pluses first, then the deltas. Rewrite each delta as a specific change ("start on time even if people are missing," not "we always start late"), vote on the most useful ones, and give the top one or two an owner. The free template above runs this flow with private brainstorming, grouping and voting.
What are examples of plus and delta items?
After a team meeting, pluses might read "we finished on time" and "decisions were written down as we went." Deltas might read "share the agenda a day ahead" and "end with an owner for every action." A good delta is phrased as the change you want, not the complaint. That makes it easy to check next time whether it happened.

Related templates

WWE Smackdown Showdown Retrospective

Tag-team your sprint reflections with wrestling-themed flair.

Working, Not Working Retrospective

A clear-cut way to identify successes and improvement areas

Quarterly Retrospective

Reflect, realign, and recharge your team every quarter.

Baby Steps Retrospective

Drive continuous improvement through small, achievable changes.

Ready to run this retrospective?Try this retrospective live