Final answer:
The project manager is using the technique of turning complaints into SMART action items to encourage team accountability by planning to include the design lead in weekly meetings for better alignment with the app's visual direction.
Step-by-step explanation:
As a project manager leading a project retrospective, the technique used to encourage team accountability in the scenario mentioned is d. turning complaints into SMART action items. This involves taking the feedback about the design feeling detached and translating it into a specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) action plan. In this case, the action plan would be to include the design lead in weekly meetings to ensure that the visual direction of the app aligns with the project goals.
By involving the design lead more frequently and concretely in the project communication, you are addressing the problem head-on and providing a clear strategy for improvement. This move not only aligns with collaborative and community psychology approaches that value reflection and feedback but also respects the importance of transparency and communication in managing a successful project team.