One starting point, different responsibilities
In the Northstar Services example, all new project requests begin through one intake route. Requesters describe the need, reviewers check the information and clarify gaps, and team leads consider priority and capacity.
Worked role matrix
Example responsibilities for a request to improve shared reporting.
| Role | What they do | What to check | Next handoff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Requester | Submits the reporting problem, who is affected, expected benefit, and preferred timing. | The request explains the need without assuming a solution is already approved. | Reviewer checks the request and asks for clarification if needed. |
| Reviewer | Checks that the request has enough context for a consistent review. | Problem, impact, timing, and any missing details are understandable. | Returns a focused clarification question or passes a clear request onward. |
| Team lead | Considers the request alongside team priorities and available capacity. | The impact and timing are clear enough to support prioritization. | Communicates the next decision or follow-up through the approved process. |
Sample handoff: shared reporting improvement
A request moves from description to review without treating submission as approval.
-
1
Requester describes the need
A team reports that a recurring weekly summary takes time to assemble and explains which decisions the summary supports.
-
2
Reviewer checks context
The reviewer checks that the affected audience, current problem, expected benefit, and preferred timing are clear; they ask a specific question if a key detail is missing.
-
3
Team lead considers priority
The team lead reviews the clarified request alongside other work and communicates the next step. Submission alone does not mean the work is approved or scheduled.
Questions by role
Practical next actions for common handoff situations.
What if my request is incomplete?
Add the missing context requested by the reviewer, such as who is affected or what outcome would help. Keep the original problem clear.
What if I am unsure who should review it?
Submit through the approved intake route and describe the area affected. Do not guess an individual reviewer; use the process's designated routing guidance.
Does a clear request mean the work is approved?
No. Clear information supports review. A prioritization or approval decision is a separate step.