After Action Reports / Lessons Learned
After-Action Reports (AAR) are a tool for continuous learning and development, ensuring that essential lessons are learned, missed opportunities are not repeated, and successes are replicated. The AAR document, according to DHS's HSEEP, is a document that captures observations of an exercise, identifies strengths and weaknesses, and makes recommendations for post-exercise improvements, which are then used to develop Improvement Plans. It is a detailed, structured analysis conducted after a specific event, project, or operation is completed. Its purpose is to evaluate what happened, why it happened, and what could be improved for future actions. The process typically involves gathering feedback from participants, reviewing performance against objectives, and identifying successes and improvement areas.
Key elements of an AAR typically include:
- Overview of the Event/Operation: A brief description of what was planned and what actually occurred.
- Objectives and Goals: What were the original objectives, and were they met?
- Performance Assessment: An analysis of the performance of the team, individuals, processes, or systems.
- What Went Well: Identification of successes or positive outcomes.
- What Could Be Improved: Discussion of challenges, mistakes, and areas where things didn’t go as planned.
- Lessons Learned: Recommendations for future actions or projects to improve efficiency, effectiveness, and coordination.
- Action Plan: Based on the findings, an actionable plan or strategy is often developed for addressing any issues raised.
