A handoff is effective when there is a rapid change in ownership of the work packet, with a complete absence of conflict.
The handoff itself does not create value, but it can destroy value, of course! Value is created by the overarching process.
The key to an effective handoff is a full kit.
The “kit” is a set of objective requirements, or prerequisites. A full kit exists when all requirements are present.
The two simple rules that govern handoffs are:
1. If requirements are missing, the intended recipient cannot accept the work packet.
2. If all requirements are in place, the intended recipient must accept the work packet (and, in so doing, they assume responsibility for the collection of any other requirements not specified in the “kit”)
These rules do not prohibit communication between the two parties on either side of the handoff, but they do define who owns the work packet at any point in time. So, for example, post handoff, an engineer might ask a salesperson for assistance discovering additional information, but it should be understood that this assistance is a favor, not an obligation.
The “kit” can only specify requirements that are objective in nature. However, this does not imply that ALL requirements are objective in nature. The kit is simply a mechanism for facilitating the change in ownership of the work packet.
Disclaimer: Full kitting is an established manufacturing concept. The adoption of the concept for all handoffs and the creation of the rules above is my own doing!
