Field Notes · 18 September 2025
Spare mapping before staff changes
When an operations lead resigns, the spare hardware wallet often leaves with informal knowledge. Map it while people still share a room.
Informal custody is common: “Alex knows where the spare is.” Alex leaves. The spare is still somewhere, but the rotation checklist cannot say who may open which drawer.
What spare mapping records
For each production device we want a named spare, a location, and a person allowed to retrieve it. The spare’s own firmware and recovery proof dates sit on the same sheet. Without that row, a fleet review will flag the production unit as under-covered even if the plastic brick exists.
Timing
Map spares during calm weeks, not during exit interviews. A thirty-minute baseline session is often enough for fleets under ten devices. Larger fleets should fold spare mapping into the flagship review so exceptions are written with witnesses present.