4 Getting started
In closing, the person who called the peer assist should acknowledge the contribution of the visiting team, and also commit to when he or she will get back with an action list of what the team are going to do differently. Finally, invite the visiting team to reflect on what they have learned and what they will take away and apply. Learning is never one-way.
4.11.4 Are there any other points I should be aware of? > In the context of the NHS, an important consideration is that of evidence-based practice. When
conducting peer assists, you will need to ensure that lessons learned are based on a combination of both on-the-job experience and sound research evidence.
> You might wish to carry out an After Action Review following your peer assist to look at whether the
process went according to plan, what was different and why, and what can you learn from that for the next time.
> While the peer assist process is designed to provide input for a specific purpose or project, consider
who else might benefit from the lessons learned. Always look out for opportunities to share and reuse knowledge and learning.
4.11.5 Resources and references As the peer assist process was pioneered by BP, the above information was taken exclusively from the following two key sources. These sources easily provide enough information to get started. Collison, Chris and Parcell Geoff. (2001) Learning to fly: practical lessons from one of the world’s leading knowledge companies. Oxford: Capstone. Chapter 6: Learning from your peers. (This book as a whole is well worth a read – refreshingly low on theory and jargon, and high on sound, practical advice based on proven results). Collison, Chris Collison Parcell, Geoff. Learning before doing: BP’s peer assist process. Knowledge Management Magazine, 2001, Volume 4, Issue 10 An article that draws on the information in the chapter 6 of the above book.
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