Multi-agent handoffs without context loss
3 Jul 2026 · 6 min read
Handoffs need concise state, open questions, decisions, and evidence so the next agent can continue safely.
A handoff is a contract between roles. It should preserve enough context for continuity without replaying the whole run.
AstraRunner treats this as an execution-platform concern: the run needs durable state, traceable decisions, cost visibility, and enough structure for teams to review what happened after the agent finishes.
Patterns that work
- Include goal, completed work, remaining work, risks, and evidence links.
- Separate facts from assumptions.
- Mark blockers and required approvals.
- Store handoffs as durable artifacts.
Implementation checklist
- Use a standard handoff schema.
- Require source links for claims.
- Include next recommended action.
- Grade handoff usefulness after continuation.
Watch outs
- Long transcripts cause context bloat.
- Missing assumptions create false confidence.
- Handoffs should not smuggle policy exceptions.
Related reading
How this fits the Astra stack
AstraRunner owns the operational path for agent work: orchestration, scheduling, approval gates, traces, costs, and role-agent handoffs. AstraMemory owns durable context and retrieval. AstraGenie turns those capabilities into product workflows for teams that want automation without rebuilding the platform layer.