The JAWS Survival Retro uses a playful ocean survival theme to help teams surface new ideas, flag risks, and celebrate strengths. This engaging format encourages candid discussion by framing project challenges as navigational choices in shark-infested waters.

When to use this template

Ideal after major project milestones, launches, or when your team faces challenging circumstances that require creative problem solving and renewed focus.

How to facilitate

Set the context by welcoming the team to the survival challenge and explain the meaning behind each column using the ocean metaphor.

Allow quiet time for everyone to add their cards to each column: new bait for ideas to try, shark traps for risks and blockers, and boat steady for current strengths.

Invite team members to read through all cards, asking clarifying questions to ensure shared understanding across the group.

Cluster related items in each column to identify themes or patterns, especially any frequently mentioned 'shark traps.'

Prioritize which actions (baits), habits (boat routines), or blockers (traps) deserve group discussion using dot voting or similar virtual tools.

Facilitate an open dialogue on the top issues, aiming to craft specific action items and celebrations tied to your findings.

Wrap up by revisiting your 'boat'—what’s keeping the team safe and together—then summarize takeaways, responsible owners, and next steps.

Pro Tips

Lean into the metaphor for creative thinking; playful analogies lower barriers to honest sharing.

Encourage storytelling—ask for concrete examples of 'traps' or 'bait' to make insights actionable.

Mix up the facilitator or invite a 'guest captain' to add fresh perspective.

Reserve time at the end for a team reflection on how the metaphor influenced discussion quality.

FAQ

How can I help my team get into the JAWS theme without it feeling forced?

Set a light, adventurous tone at the start and give examples of 'bait,' 'traps,' and 'boat steadiness.' Remind everyone it's a tool for new perspectives, not a performance.

What if the discussion gets stuck on negatives ('shark traps')?

Balance by steering conversation toward solutions and strengths. Use the 'cast new bait' column to prompt proactive ideas that address the traps.

How do I ensure action items come out of creative retros like this?

After group discussion, spend a few minutes transforming insights from each column into clear, owners-assigned next steps. Summarize commitments at the end.

What's the ideal frequency for using this format?

This retro shines every few sprints or after major events when you want to shake up routine reflection, but not for every single sprint.

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At a glance

Duration
45–60 min
Team Size
4-10 people
Columns
3 columns
Base Format
Start, Stop, Continue

Ready to get started?

Use this template to run your next retrospective

🦈🌊 JAWS Survival Retro

Dive into the deep! Navigate our project waters like the heroes of Amity Island—share what to bait, what to avoid, and what keeps our boat afloat. Let’s ensure our teamwork is too tough for any shark!

Template Columns

🎣 Cast New Bait

🛑 Avoid Shark Traps

🚤 Keep the Boat Steady

About this template