CHAPTER 1
Techniques

In order to plan and conduct an After Action Review, it is essential to know some basic facilitation techniques. These foundational techniques are outlined in this chapter at the introductory level only. Each of these techniques could be a chapter or even a book by itself. There are numerous books and resources already available for the practitioner of After Action Review to further develop their skills.

For the Informal AAR, one does not have to have the mastery of these skills, but for the Formal AAR, the facilitator must be qualified and experienced to carry on the facilitation process more professionally. While organization and project management skills are basic to managing any activity, it is presumed that anyone planning to learn and conduct AAR must have some experience in managing work.