From Pilot to Reflection: A 5=5 Method [2 of 3]

Snapshot: Systematic Approach to Pilots
From Idea to Pilot: A 5x5 Approach [1 of 3]
From Reflection to Report: A 5<5 Report [3 of 3]

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When a pilot reaches a juncture... for recommit, pivot or abandon.  Here is a method that I use for learning and reflection.

1. Brainstorm 

• Brainstorm 5 successes 
• Brainstorm 5 failures
  
• For each, what was one personal ingredient that contributed to that success/failure
  
• For each, what was one external variable that contributed to that success/failure
  
• For each, what is one thing to experiment with differently next time
  

2. What surprised me?
3. What touched me?
4. How is my understanding different?
5. Based on the experience, what question will I ask before I start next time?
 
I find that the list of successes/failures tends to be longer on one side than the other and that difference can help determine whether to recommit, pivot or abandon. 

The = symbol is a reminder that the reflection happens twice.  Once through the 5 questions related to the pilot/prototype project and a second time round for the personal/professional development.


Attribution: this approach reflects a mashup from brilliant mentoring, modeling, discussions with many people... including Bruce Ettinger, Nancy Dubler, E. Nathaniel Gates, David Karshmer, Rachel Remen, Steve Rosenberg, Andrew Lyon, Edward Harran and many more.

What questions do you ask for reflective learning?