7.1 Deliverables Handover: Completing the Project with Clarity and Trust

7.1 Deliverables Handover

One of the most important actions in the project closure phase is the formal handover of deliverables.
This is not just “submission”—it's proof of achievement and confirmation of trust.

When designed and executed carefully, the handover builds a strong conclusion with clients, stakeholders, and internal teams, opening the door to future collaboration.

Completion vs. Handover

In many projects, “deliverables are done” is equated with “the work is finished.”
However, a true handover requires the following steps:

1. Deliverables completed (from creator’s side)
2. Internal review and quality check
3. Submission and explanation to stakeholders (documentation + communication)
4. Formal approval and receipt confirmation

Following these four steps helps prevent misunderstandings like “we submitted it, but they didn’t review it” or disputes over quality.

What to Include in a Handover

Along with the deliverables, include the following information to help the recipient use them with confidence:

• Purpose and context: Why this deliverable was created
• Contents overview: Navigation for files, screens, or document sections
• Intended usage: Initial operations, setup steps, or use cases
• Caveats and limitations: Assumptions, out-of-scope items, or future enhancements
• Contact info: Who to reach out to for operations or support

In IT or business design projects, providing complete documentation (manuals, transition guides, FAQs, etc.) increases the sense of closure.

Using ActionBridge for Handover

ActionBridge helps you prepare for handover in the following ways:

• Mark tasks with statuses like “Transferred” or “Awaiting Approval”
• Attach supporting documents (PDF, Excel, screenshots) directly to tasks
• Create limited-access links for clients or external stakeholders and track their access
• Use comment threads to record explanations or Q&A

This ensures that deliverables aren’t just “sent”—they’re understood, accepted, and ready to use.

Make Approval Explicit

Because approvals are tied to evaluations, payments, and contracts, make sure they are explicit and documented.

Examples include:

• Signed acceptance forms (physical or PDF)
• Clear confirmation replies via email or Slack (“Reviewed and approved”)
• Checklist-style acceptance, reviewing each item or function

This helps prevent later disputes and allows a smooth transition into the next phase (e.g., support or maintenance).

Summary: Handover Marks a New Beginning

Deliverables handover isn’t just the end of a project—it’s the start of a future relationship.
Don’t treat it as a formality. Explain clearly, address concerns, and create a handover that shows care and respect.
That’s how you build the kind of trust that leads to the next opportunity.

→ Next, continue to 7.2 Retrospective & Evaluation and learn how to reflect on the full project experience.