What is the purpose of an "after-action review"?

The purpose of an "after-action review" is to analyze events and identify improvements for future performance. This process is essential in organizational learning, as it helps teams and individuals reflect on what happened during an event or operation, understand the outcomes, and draw lessons from both successes and failures. By focusing on analyzing the actions taken and the results achieved, the review informs future strategies and enhances overall effectiveness.

Engaging in this reflective practice fosters a culture of continuous improvement, where insights gained from past experiences are used to refine processes, procedures, and team dynamics, ultimately contributing to better preparedness and performance in future operations. The focus is on constructive criticism and learning rather than assigning blame or merely celebrating accomplishments.