A Risk-Based Evaluation of the Handover Process for Information Transfer at the Swedish Transport Administration

Abstract

This thesis investigates the handover process between the Investments and Main tenance business areas at the Swedish Transport Administration (STA), with a focus on identifying deficiencies in information transfer and organisational prac tices. The study aims to analyse how the process is carried out in practice, where the risks and challenges arise, and which improvement measures can most effec tively reduce these risks. The research is based primarily on qualitative interviews with personnel involved in the handover process, complemented by a qualitative risk assessment. To evaluate and prioritise potential improvement measures, the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) was applied, using time, cost, and health and safety as decision criteria. The findings indicate that the handover process is generally functional but exhibits significant variation in implementation. While successful outcomes are common, recurring challenges are identified in areas such as stakeholder involvement, unclear responsibilities, fragmented information man agement, and gaps in competence. These issues give rise to risks related to delays, increased costs, and, in some cases, safety-critical errors. In addition, the AHP analysis shows that early involvement of specialists from Maintenance is the most effective measure for reducing risk, as it addresses root causes and prevents errors in early project stages. Measures such as temporary project groups and full-time handover coordinators contribute to improved coordination and continuity, while mandatory training provides long-term support for competence development but has a more limited immediate impact. Besides, the study concludes that im proving the handover process requires a focus on early, preventive interventions combined with strengthened organisational coordination and knowledge sharing. The findings provide practical guidance for the STA and contribute to a broader understanding of how handover processes in infrastructure projects can be im proved to enhance efficiency, reliability and safety.