Project managers constantly evolve with each new project, but how often do they reflect on what they learned from their last project? Actively logging the details and insights gained from previous projects can significantly improve future project outcomes. This process, commonly known as a “lessons-learned review,” is a valuable tool for capturing both successes and areas for improvement.
Why Conduct a Lessons-Learned Review?
The knowledge and experience gained from past projects can be pivotal to the success of future endeavors. Even seasoned project managers sometimes make decisions that lead to delays or failures. Instead of focusing solely on the negative aspects, it’s important to learn from these mistakes. A well-executed lessons-learned review can help identify successful strategies, avoid past pitfalls, and refine project management processes, ultimately saving time, resources, and costs.
Here are some practical tips for conducting an effective lessons-learned review:
1. Who Needs to Be Involved?
Only include those who can provide valuable insights. Decide whether the review should involve the core project team, management, or key stakeholders. The depth of the insights you need will guide your decision on who should participate.
2. Save the Date
It’s easy to get distracted by the next project, but scheduling your lessons-learned review as part of the project plan ensures that everyone involved has time to reflect. This guarantees full participation and helps prevent the feeling of moving backwards.
3. Keep It Simple
The review should be focused and efficient. Avoid long meetings by limiting the discussion to four key questions:
- What went well during the project?
- What could have gone better?
- How can we replicate what went well in future projects?
- How can we prevent the issues that arose from happening again?
These questions will keep the review on track and ensure that all critical areas are addressed.
4. Capture the Information
Designate one person to take notes during the review. This ensures that all insights, ideas, and action items are properly recorded. Document everything into a centralized database, where it can be easily accessed and referenced in the future.
5. Using the Information
The lessons-learned database should be continuously updated and serve as a valuable resource for improving future projects. Encourage team members to contribute suggestions and feedback to refine this repository. Over time, this information will help identify best practices and prevent recurring mistakes, leading to better project outcomes.
Why a Lessons Learned Log Matters
A comprehensive lessons-learned log can significantly boost the success of future projects. It won’t eliminate all project management challenges, but with consistent use, it will drive improvements over time. Before beginning your next project, always ask, “What did I learn from my last project?”
Find Out More
Cora PPM offers a powerful Lessons Learned Log feature, helping organizations capture and apply insights from past projects. With Cora PPM, you can generate a Lessons Learned Report for your post-project review in seconds, boosting the probability of success in future projects.
Want to see how Cora PPM can help? Watch this video
By consistently conducting lessons-learned reviews, project managers can continuously refine their approach, reduce risks, and increase the chances of success in future projects. Start applying these tips today and make your project management more effective than ever.
