I've seen session-based test management implemented a number of ways. I have a general rule that a charter isn't "done" until the debrief happens. It's easy to fall into the habit of queuing up debriefs and not doing them. This rule prevents that from happening.

On heavy meeting days, when you absolutely have no time for debriefs, try having your team email them to you. I don't prefer this method, but it can help. The general format I use for those emails is:

• I want to know about what you tested.


• I want to know how you felt about your testing.


• I want to know what follow up you've done.


• I want to know how long it all took.

As a test manager, I have a rule that my team can "force" me to buy them coffee at any time. We walk downstairs to a coffee shop together and I fork over the couple bucks for a latte (or whatever they like). It's a cheap way to get easy access to how someone is feeling, what their frustrations are, and what they really want to be doing.