Create a structured framework for facilitating a product development retrospective after [project/release]. Include: 1) Opening exercise to establish psychological safety (provide specific exercise), 2) Data review section with key metrics and outcomes vs. goals, 3) Four category assessment: What went well, What didn't go well, What we learned, What still puzzles us, 4) Root cause analysis technique for 2-3 key issues, 5) Prioritization method for identifying improvements, 6) Action item creation framework with ownership and deadlines, 7) Team feedback mechanism, and 8) Follow-up plan for accountability.

How to Use This Prompt

Copy the prompt using the button above
Replace placeholders in [brackets] with your specific details
Paste into your AI assistant (ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, etc.)
Iterate as needed - ask follow-up questions to refine the output

Why This Prompt Works

This prompt goes beyond the standard "what went well / what didn't" format by starting with psychological safety and ending with accountability. The four-category assessment adds nuance by separating learnings from lingering questions, while the root cause analysis and prioritization steps ensure the retro produces concrete, actionable improvements rather than vague commitments.

When to Use This Prompt

Wrapping up a major release or project milestone and want to capture learnings before they fade
Team morale is low after a tough sprint and you need a structured way to process what happened
Facilitating your first retrospective as a new PM and want a proven framework to follow

Tips for Better Results

Include the project timeline and key milestones so the AI can structure the data review section around actual events
Mention your team size and whether members are remote, hybrid, or in-person for appropriate exercise recommendations
Share 1-2 known issues from the project so the AI can suggest targeted root cause analysis techniques

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