What is meant by "after-action review"?

An "after-action review" refers to a structured process that takes place following an incident or operation to evaluate the response, actions taken, and overall effectiveness. This review involves gathering feedback from the involved personnel to identify what went well and what could be improved in future responses. It emphasizes learning from experiences, fostering accountability, and creating actionable recommendations, which ultimately leads to enhanced operational performance.

This review process is critical for continuous improvement within an organization, particularly in emergency services where each incident presents unique challenges. It allows teams to analyze their performance objectively and ensures that valuable lessons learned are documented and shared for future reference. By conducting an after-action review, departments can refine their strategies, training, and protocols based on real-world experiences, enhancing the safety and effectiveness of their operations.