Forgetting Curve Checklist
Introduction
Checklist for applying the Forgetting Curve principles in change management:
- Before Launching the Change
- Break down key messages into digestible, memorable chunks
- Design a reinforcement time schedule (eg, Day 1, Day 3, Week 1, Week 2…)
- Plan for multiple communication channels (email, F2F, video, etc.)
- Align leaders and change agents on consistent messaging
- Identify opportunities for spaced learning (not one-off sessions.)
- During Initial Communication & Training
- Provide summary materials (job aids, infographics, cheat sheets, etc)
- Engage learners with interactive or hands-on formats
- Use stories or analogies to make content more memorable
- Include quizzes, polls or activities to promote active recall
- Record sessions for on-demand replay.
- Reinforce & Embed the Change
- Schedule follow-up communications (reminders, nudges, updates, etc)
- Encourage leaders to reiterate key messages regularly
- Set up informal leaders, change champions, etc to answer questions and model behaviours
- Deliver microlearning refreshers (short tips or videos, etc)
- Provide on-the-job tools (checklists, templates, prompts, etc)
- Sustain Over Time
- Track engagement and comprehension (surveys, pulse checks, etc)
- Offer ongoing coaching, mentoring or Q&A sessions
- Recognise and reward early adopters or success stories
- Refresh learning materials daily, weekly, monthly or quarterly
- Update reinforcement as the change matures or evolves.
Tip: Aim to continually reinforce key messages whenever possible.
(main source: Benjamin Campbell et al, 2025)