State-of-the art, well-crafted After Action Reviews (AARs) can increase unit learning and aid in speedy, but comprehensive, exercise evaluation. AARs can be powerful training tools that can visually document performance improvements and help develop strategic learning. Improved techniques and advanced technological features can increase AAR effectiveness. Technology now exists to allow chronological analysis of simulation-based training events, enabling review of exercises from both friendly and opposing-side perspective; and "take-home packages" that allow analysis of results when the unit returns home.
Research demonstrates that improved AAR procedures can be more effective than traditional approaches. Today, with a choice of AAR methods and available technologies, unit commanders can select the most appropriate for the situation and desired outcome. For example, essential training points can be captured by taking advantage of current AAR systems. Also, reports can be developed for both the immediate review situation and for take-home package replays.
This paper presents recommended AAR procedures based on research, current automation capabilities, and compares selected AAR systems and their technological features that could help commanders gain maximum performance improvement from each training exercise.