When should an after-action review be conducted?

An after-action review should be conducted immediately following the completion of a deployment because this timing allows for a comprehensive evaluation of the entire process while it is still fresh in the minds of the participants. Conducting the review right after the deployment facilitates open discussion about successes, challenges, and areas for improvement. This immediate feedback loop is essential for capturing insights that can enhance future deployment efforts and inform best practices.

Choosing this option emphasizes the importance of timely reflection, as waiting too long might result in missed information or diminished recall of important details. It ensures that lessons learned are documented in real-time, enabling effective adjustments and enhancements for future operations. Early reviews foster a culture of continuous improvement and accountability, which are crucial for effective unit deployment management.