Handover

Definition

The transfer of a system, and the knowledge needed to run it, to another team, at the end of an engagement, or when moving work in-house. A handover covers documentation, access, and the reasoning behind decisions, not just the code.

Why it matters

Handover quality is best judged before you need it. Ask at the start what a handover would consist of and what it costs. A provider whose answer is vague, or who treats it as chargeable extra work, has an incentive to keep you dependent.