Of receiving a handover - Sun, Feb 20, 2022
An often-overlooked aspect of project management is the handover process. The art of receiving a project handover is as crucial as the project itself
The handover phase is where the true transition from project creation to project management occurs. It is a pivotal moment with responsibilities and expectations and it might be tempting to dive into the new project without taking the time to understand the significance of a proper handover.
Consider it as a bridge connecting the creator of a project to its new custodian. The success of the projects future depends on how effectively this transition takes place.
I’ve done and received multiple project handovers that ranged from being OK to downright chaotic. One example is a project where the outgoing team had prepared a detailed document that only outlined the project architecture but didn’t include anything about the step-by-step procedures for common troubleshooting scenarios or who owns what. A handover that should have taken a few weeks took months instead.
Avoiding these steep learning curves and unexpected issues down the line is essential.
A successful handover not only eases the transition but also sets the stage for a successful project management phase, ultimately benefiting both teams.
Learn from my mistakes, ask more and read more than you think is neccessary during the handover
Ask questions
Your questions should provide valuable insights into the project’s history, its intricacies, and any potential challenges. Be sure to ask questions, document the answers, and maintain an open channel of communication even after the handover is complete.
Verify documentation
Comprehensive documentation is the backbone of any successful handover but not everyone verifies the documentation that they get in a handover. Request all project-related documents, notes, configurations, and any other relevant information. Review them meticulously, and if something is missing, don’t hesitate to ask for it. Ensure that all project team members have the opportunity to share their knowledge and expertise with the receiving team.