retrospect.io

What retrospect.io is

retrospect.io is a web service for teams that want to examine how they work and identify ways to become more effective through retrospectives. Sessions run live, so members receive updates on their devices while the retrospective is in progress. The group can define its own column names instead of using fixed categories; examples include Mad, Sad, Glad and Start, Stop, Continue. People can join or moderate from a computer or mobile device, and retro templates are available for structuring sessions. The service uses a freemium model. Its Free plan is listed as free, while the All Inclusive plan costs $9 a month and includes as many teams, users and retrospectives as needed. Google Apps authentication accesses an account’s email address and basic profile information. The privacy policy describes regular backups, firewalls, server-access restrictions and hosting in secure SSAE 16 audited data centers in the United States. Payment information is handled by a third-party processor rather than stored by retrospect.io. The terms prohibit protected health information and state that the service is not HIPAA compliant.

Who it suits

It suits teams that run collaborative retrospectives and want live participation from computers or mobile devices. Groups needing custom reflection categories or ready-made retro templates may also find it suitable.

Getting started

1. Open https://www.retrospect.io/ in a web browser
2. Choose the Free plan or All Inclusive at $9 a month
3. Use Google Apps authentication if desired
4. Select a retro template or create custom columns
5. Join or moderate the retrospective from a computer or mobile device

Verdict

Choose retrospect.io if your team needs live, customizable retrospectives that work across computers and mobile devices. The free plan offers an entry point, while All Inclusive costs $9 a month with unlimited teams, users and retrospectives. Look elsewhere if HIPAA compliance or guaranteed transmission security is required.