review · Retrospective · 20–45 min · 3-20 people · low energy
Rose, Bud, Thorn
Rose, Bud, Thorn is a simple yet powerful retrospective technique for gathering feedback and identifying areas for improvement. It encourages participants to reflect on what went well (Roses), what shows potential (Buds), and what challenges were faced (Thorns).
When to use Rose, Bud, Thorn
Use Rose, Bud, Thorn to quickly gather feedback on a project, sprint, or meeting. It's a great way to identify successes, opportunities, and challenges in a structured and positive manner.
What it solves
Lack of clear feedback; difficulty identifying areas for improvement; negative focus in retrospectives.
How to run Rose, Bud, Thorn, step by step
- Explain the Rose, Bud, Thorn framework: Roses (what went well), Buds (opportunities for improvement), Thorns (challenges faced) (2 minutes).
- Instruct participants to individually write down their Roses, Buds, and Thorns on sticky notes (10-15 minutes).
- Have participants share their sticky notes and place them in the corresponding columns on a whiteboard (5-10 minutes).
- Discuss the key themes and identify actionable steps for improvement (5-15 minutes).
Materials needed
- Sticky notes
- Markers or pens
- Whiteboard or flip chart
- Timer
Facilitator tips
- Encourage participants to be specific and provide examples.
- Create a safe space for honest feedback.
- Focus on identifying actionable steps for improvement.
Common pitfalls
- Participants focusing solely on negative aspects. Remind them to also identify Roses and Buds.
- Lack of actionable steps for improvement. Facilitate a discussion to identify concrete actions.
Variations
- Sailboat Retrospective: Use a sailboat metaphor to represent progress, enablers, and obstacles.
- Start, Stop, Continue: Identify what to start doing, stop doing, and continue doing.
Running it online or hybrid
Use a shared online whiteboard (Miro, Mural) with dedicated columns for Roses, Buds, and Thorns.
What it produces
A list of Roses, Buds, and Thorns, typically written on sticky notes or a whiteboard.
Origin
Commonly used retrospective technique — source
Build a session around Rose, Bud, Thorn
METODIC places Rose, Bud, Thorn inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.