Learning Log
What we learned, and what changes
- PhaseTest
- Group1 to 15 people
- Time20 minutes
- SettingRoom or remote
- ExecutivesYes
What it is
A learning log records, at the end of every test, what was tested, what was expected, what happened, what was learned, the decision (build, change and test again, or stop) and the owner. It stops tests from being forgotten.
When to use it
At the end of every test, to record results against the pass mark and the decision that follows.
When to skip it
Never skip it. A test that is not logged teaches nothing the next team can use.
How to run it
- 5 minRead the Experiment Card. Compare the result to the pass mark.
- 10 minWrite what was learned and what changes.
- 5 minRecord the decision, the owner and the date.
About 20 minutes of method time. Add ten to fifteen minutes to open and close the session.
What to watch for
Recording opinions and not evidence. Writing only good news. A log nobody reads again.
The AI lens
Decisions are one of three: build, change and test again, or stop. Stopping is a good outcome when the evidence says so. Keep the result with the decision record.
What you leave with
The learning, the decision and an owner, recorded where the team can find it.
An example
A team that stops an idea after a test writes down why, so that the next team does not repeat it. A log entry that says 'stopped: the data to support it does not exist' is a useful result.
How it compares
A Learning Log records what happened and what was decided. An Experiment Card plans the test beforehand.
Related methods
Questions
What is Learning Log?
A learning log records, at the end of every test, what was tested, what was expected, what happened, what was learned, the decision (build, change and test again, or stop) and the owner. It stops tests from being forgotten.
When should I use Learning Log?
At the end of every test, to record results against the pass mark and the decision that follows.
How long does Learning Log take and how many people do I need?
Learning Log takes about 20 minutes and suits 1 to 15 people, plus a facilitator. Add ten to fifteen minutes to open and close the session.
How is Learning Log different from other methods?
A Learning Log records what happened and what was decided. An Experiment Card plans the test beforehand.
Can I run Learning Log remotely or with executives?
Yes. Learning Log works in the room or remotely. Remotely, put the canvas on a shared board in advance and write silently in the board, not in chat. Executives: Yes, works with executives present.