Abstract
This chapter aims to provide a theoretically based and proven educational design for lessons learned. Called a proactive review, this educational design is exemplified in a case study of a global information technology company classified as big business, where proactive reviews were developed and implemented in over 40 countries. This chapter explores how employees who solve a task together can learn from the experience and share this learning with relevant colleagues to improve work practices, services, and/or products. This chapter describes the format of proactive reviews, suggestions for starting points called PR triggers, and the four roles involved—the participant, sponsor, top management, and facilitator. The tangible and intangible results of proactive reviews are presented with their impacts on the participants, their teams, and the organization's products, services, and/or work practices. Finally, the chapter provides recommendations for implementing and maintaining proactive reviews in organizations.
TopLearning In The Context Of Work
This section explores the four dimensions of learning, starting with individual learning as described by Bateson (1972), whose viewpoint is drawn into considerations about learning in teams in the context of work and organizational learning (Elkjaer, 2013; Engeström, 2001; Engeström, Rantavuori & Kerosuo, 2013; Gherardi, 2001) including the lessons learned (East 1998). It becomes clear that the context is important for the process of learning, and this section ends by briefly describing the requirements for successful lessons learned.
Key Terms in this Chapter
Ripple Effect of a Proactive Review: Refers to how the learning from a proactive review spreads to colleagues throughout the organization.
Management Challenge: An issue that cannot be solved by the participants and needs the attention of the top management.
Obstacles to a Proactive Review: Actions or behaviors opposing the participation in the proactive review or the implementation of the results.
Enablers for a Proactive Review: Actions or behaviors supporting the participation in the proactive review or the implementation of the results.
Proactive Review: An educational design for lessons learned, consisting of seven questions asked in a specific sequence. The dialogue is the backbone of proactive reviews.
Action and Communication Plan: A tangible result of a proactive review, including actions for further development of the findings and decisions regarding whom to involve and inform.
Roles in a Proactive Review: The four roles involved in this educational design for lessons learned are the participants in the proactive review, the facilitator, the sponsor, and the top management.