After Action Reviews, Learning Lessons and Post-Crisis Assessment of Crisis and Risk Communication

After-Action Reviews (AARs) have become essential tools for organizational learning and development, particularly in post-crisis contexts such as public health emergencies. This study examines the processes, characteristics, and challenges of AARs, focusing on their application during the COVID-19 pandemic. We conceptualize AARs as communication processes that enact, encode, and disseminate lessons learned, contributing to organizational resilience and innovation. By analyzing a sample of COVID-19 AARs from various organizations, we explore the variability in AAR form, structure, and content across different organizational levels. Our findings reveal consistent themes in assessment and recommendations, particularly emphasizing the importance of communication, coordination, and inclusive planning for vulnerable populations. Results highlight the significance of AARs as tools for translating crisis experiences into actionable insights for future pandemic preparedness and response.