What is the last step in Ester Derby and Diana Larsen's 5-step retrospective template?

The last step in Esther Derby and Diana Larsen's 5-step retrospective template is to close the retrospective. This step is significant because it provides a formal conclusion to the meeting and ensures that all the participants leave with clarity on what was discussed and the actions that will be taken moving forward.

Closing the retrospective involves summarizing the insights gained, reinforcing commitments to the agreed actions, and often expressing gratitude to participants for their engagement and contributions. This can also serve as a moment to reinforce team cohesion and set a positive tone for future iterations.

While gathering data, deciding what to do, and celebrating successes are all important components of the retrospective process, they are steps leading up to the final closure. Each of these steps builds upon the previous one, facilitating a structured approach to continuous improvement. However, it is the act of closing the retrospective that formally marks the end of the process, ensuring participants recognize that the discussion has concluded and that they are encouraged to put their learning into practice.