During an after-action review (AAR), what are leaders encouraged to focus on?

During an after-action review (AAR), leaders are encouraged to focus on what happened, why it happened, and how to improve in the future. This reflective process is crucial for understanding the events that transpired during a mission or exercise, analyzing the effectiveness of actions taken, and identifying lessons learned. The goal of an AAR is to promote continuous improvement, enhance future performance, and develop a culture of accountability and growth within the team or organization.

By examining what occurred and the reasons behind those events, leaders can gain insights into both successful strategies and areas that require enhancement. This feedback loop is essential for fostering an environment where individuals feel safe to share their experiences and suggestions for improvement. Ultimately, the focus on these core elements during an AAR ensures that organizations can adapt and evolve based on real experiences, thereby optimizing future outcomes.