Strategies for Effective Remote Retrospectives: Exploring Retrospective Games, Anonymity, and Continuous Reflection

Yen Ying Ng (), Bartosz Leśniewski (), Krzysztof Marek (), Michael Neumann () and Jacek Trzesicki ()
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Yen Ying Ng: Nicolaus Copernicus University
Bartosz Leśniewski: Gdańsk University of Technology
Krzysztof Marek: Warsaw University of Technology
Michael Neumann: University of Applied Sciences and Arts Hannover
Jacek Trzesicki: Warsaw University of Technology

A chapter in Advances in Information Systems Development, 2025, pp 23-42 from Springer

Abstract: Abstract Context: The shift to remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the long-standing challenge of conducting engaging and productive sprint retrospectives. This transition has introduced new complexities, including decreased team trust, the loss of valuable non-verbal communication, and reduced brainstorming effectiveness. Objective: Our research investigates strategies to improve remote retrospectives for Scrum teams experiencing low engagement and reluctance to provide constructive feedback. Method: Through three Action Research cycles, we sequentially introduced and evaluated retrospective games, anonymous feedback, and continuous issue documentation throughout the sprint. Results: The introduction of games demonstrably increased meeting engagement and active participation, while anonymity created a more secure environment for more comprehensive and honest feedback. Furthermore, continuous reflection helped ensure that critical issues were not overlooked and promoted proactive, real-time problem-solving. A replication study with a Kanban team at a different company supported the positive impact of games and anonymity but showed mixed results regarding continuous issue documentation. Conclusion: This research adds to the existing knowledge on agile software development in remote settings, offering actionable strategies for agile practitioners to improve their continuous improvement practices. Our results underscore that remote retrospectives can be effective but require adaptations to address the inherent challenges of virtual environments, such as lower engagement and trust. These adaptations should be tailored to the unique context and needs of each team.

Keywords: Collaborative games; Sprint retrospective; Agile; Software process improvement; Remote work; Distributed software development (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-87880-0_2

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