The Plus Delta retrospective is a straightforward yet powerful approach to team reflection that focuses on two key aspects: what's working well (Plus) and what needs to change (Delta). Originally adapted from academic feedback methods, this format helps teams identify current strengths while targeting specific areas for improvement.
This simple two-column structure makes it particularly effective for teams new to retrospectives or when time is limited. The 'Plus' column celebrates successes and reinforces positive practices, while the 'Delta' column (using the mathematical symbol for change) constructively addresses opportunities for improvement without the negative connotations of traditional 'pros and cons' formats.
By maintaining a balanced view between positives and potential changes, teams can have productive conversations that acknowledge progress while driving continuous improvement. The format's simplicity helps keep discussions focused and action-oriented, making it easier to identify concrete next steps.
What is The Plus Delta Retrospective
Plus
What went well in the last sprint?
Guide the team to identify specific successes, practices, and behaviors that contributed to positive outcomes. Encourage concrete examples rather than vague statements. This helps establish what practices should be continued and potentially expanded.
Delta
What changes could we make?
Focus on constructive suggestions for change rather than complaints. Encourage participants to phrase feedback in terms of opportunities for improvement and to be specific about what could be different. Help the team prioritize changes that would have the most impact.
Suggested Icebreaker Questions
- What's one positive change you've noticed in the team since our last retrospective?
- If you could instantly change one thing about our work process, what would it be?
Ideas and Tips for Your Retrospective Meeting
- Keep the focus on actionable changes rather than dwelling on problems without solutions
- Encourage balanced participation by asking quieter team members to share their thoughts first
- Use dot voting to prioritize which changes to tackle first if many items are identified
- Maintain a positive tone by framing deltas as opportunities for improvement rather than criticisms
- Document and follow up on agreed changes in the next retrospective to ensure continuity
.
How to Run Effective Meetings with TeamRetro
Start Your Session in a Click
Log into TeamRetro and choose your template. Customise questions and the workflow to create your perfect retro for your team.
Create Your Team Easily – No Separate Accounts Needed
Brainstorm Individually – Free From Bias
Smart Grouping for Faster Insights
Fair, Flexible, and Fast Voting
Engage, React, and Capture Key Insights
Walk your team through ideas one by one with Presentation Mode. Stay in sync, spark real-time discussions, and capture feedback with comments, live reactions, and polls—all in one place.
Turn Ideas Into Action
Propose next steps with team buy-in, get AI-powered action suggestions, and keep everything in one place. Committed actions sync to your personal dashboard and integrate with your workflow tools—keeping you on track.
Save, Share, and Stay on Track
Get quick AI-powered summaries, add facilitator notes, and store retrospectives in your library for easy access. Schedule your next session and track published actions to keep your team accountable at the next retro.
Turn Team Data into Actionable Insights
Uncover trends, common themes, and key engagement metrics at a glance. Track sentiment shifts, analyze conversations, and monitor completed actions to drive continuous improvement.