Give a short assignment a complete brief.

Start with the task and its expected result. Describe where the work happens, the period of engagement and which activities are included. If the requirement could expand, explain how a change will be discussed rather than assuming additional tasks fit the original brief.

A clear brief is useful to the person completing the assignment and to the person reviewing it. Both should understand what completion looks like.

Before work begins, agree the arrangements directly with the people involved. Keep unresolved details visible so they can be settled before the assignment starts.

• Tasks, locations and working schedules
• Tools, access and any necessary briefing
• The contact for questions or changes
• Agreed engagement terms and the completion review

For a short project, the handover may be as simple as a task summary and a list of open items. Decide who receives it and how completion will be reviewed. Capture changes made during the assignment so the next person or team receives the current picture.