The Power of a Consistent (and Sometimes Boring) Review Process

Recently, I had an enlightening conversation with a coach whose team had just achieved the remarkable feat of winning a national title in their country’s highest level of basketball. As we discussed their journey, I asked him, “What’s the one thing that nobody in the media or fanbase is talking about, but that made the biggest difference in your championship run this year?”

Without a moment’s hesitation, he replied, “Our after-action review process.”

This straightforward response surprised me. He went on to explain how the process often felt monotonous, despite their best efforts to inject some variety throughout the season. Yet, he firmly believed that this seemingly dull routine of reflection was the bedrock of their success.

The "Boring" but Effective Review Process

So, what did this process look like? It was deceptively simple, yet incredibly powerful:

Reviewing Values & Behaviors

The team utilized a Google Survey, with 3 to 5 questions that remained largely unchanged. These questions prompted players to reflect on their experiences, asking them to rate different aspects of their performance on a scale of 1-10, along with providing short, open-ended answers. This allowed for focused yet straightforward feedback.

Breakout Groups for After-Action Reviews

In these sessions, the coach would act as a facilitator, guiding discussions by posing 1 or 2 key questions. Although the questions often felt repetitive, they were essential in reinforcing the core values the team aimed to embody.

To keep the energy alive and encourage diverse perspectives, players would regularly break into pairs or small groups, constantly mixing things up. This dynamic interaction fostered an environment where players could share insights and learn from one another.

The magic ingredient in this whole process? Consistency.

Boring Isn’t Always Bad—Consistency is Key

Let’s be honest—many people find the idea of a structured review process a bit tedious. However, there’s undeniable power in repetition. This approach to continuous improvement, known as Kaizen in Japanese, has been utilized by the Navy SEALs for decades. It emphasizes the importance of small, incremental changes that lead to significant outcomes over time.

It can be tempting to skip those 3 to 5 minutes after practice for an after-action review, especially when everyone is eager to head home. Yet, it’s just as simple to make these discussions a regular part of the routine, whether in person or even through a team text group. The key is to make it a non-negotiable practice.

There’s Never a Perfect Time—Consistency Reinforces Values & Standards

Reflecting on my journey while writing The Culture System, I often think about the chapter I regrettably omitted, titled “Intentionally Reflect for Success: After Action Reviews.” It’s a topic that deserves more attention, as it’s vital for fostering a culture of accountability and growth.

But here’s the good news: you can still access a PDF copy of this insightful chapter. Here’s how:

1. 1. Leave a review of The Culture System on Amazon, your e-reader, or Audible (wherever you purchased it).
2. 2. Email [email protected] to let us know you’ve shared your thoughts.
3. 3. Receive a 14-page PDF that includes Bonus Chapters 1 & 2, offering practical guidance on implementing Before and After Action Reviews in your own team.