Running a short debrief after a job that went wrong
A ten-minute, no-blame review that turns a rough job into one change you can actually make.
Hold a ten-minute debrief
- Do it within two days. Details fade quickly. Same day is best if everyone is available.
- Start with the facts. What was quoted, what happened, what it cost in time and parts.
- Ask what was surprising. The surprise is usually where the process had a gap.
- Pick one change. A checklist line, a question for the first call, or a supplier change. One is enough.
- Write it down. Add it to the job folder and the checklist so the change sticks.
Common questions
Is this only for big mistakes?
No. Small repeated problems are often the cheapest to fix.
Who should attend?
Whoever worked the job and whoever took the call or wrote the quote.
See also the contractor guides and free tools.
General information, not legal or financial advice. Verify with your attorney or accountant.
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