Tactical Tip #5: Team Notebooks

Capture decisions, questions and ideas in a shared space to create a reference guide and encourage reflections.

• Rotate responsibility for documenting group agreements, upcoming goals and other discussions.
• Make a habit of having group members review and sign off on the documentation.
• Items can include the mundane (who is responsible for cleaning out the fridge before a long weekend) as well as critical success factors (how will the team train on the new system and maintain productivity?)
• The Notebook can help new members understand the team's history, achievements and barriers.
• Focus on content over form, but ensure comments are clear enough for absent members.
• In developing agendas, reference the Notebook to keep good ideas in the hopper.
• Team Notebooks differ from meeting minutes in that they are less formal and not circulated outside the group.  More like a shared diary.