Async Collaboration Feature Spec Template

Real-time collaboration means multiple users editing the same object simultaneously, with instant visibility of each other's actions (live cursors, typing indicators). Async collaboration means users contribute at different times, with structured handoffs and notifications bridging the time gap. Most products need both, but async is the dominant pattern for distributed teams. Design your async workflows first, then add real-time enhancements where they reduce friction.

Give the author a consolidated view of all reviewer feedback before they act on changes. Show agreements (where reviewers align) and conflicts (where they disagree) explicitly. Let the author resolve conflicts with a decision and a note explaining their reasoning. Log the resolution so reviewers can see how their feedback was handled. Do not force the author to address each piece of feedback sequentially.

It depends on urgency. For time-sensitive handoffs (approval requests with SLAs), send real-time notifications. For status updates and progress sharing, batch into daily or twice-daily digests delivered at the start of the user's workday. Always let users override defaults. The most common complaint about async tools is notification overload, so err on the side of fewer, more relevant notifications.

Yes, but make them configurable. A default 48-hour review window works for most teams, but some workflows (legal approval, security review) need longer windows while others (hotfix approval) need shorter ones. The SLA creates accountability and enables escalation. Without an SLA, async handoffs often stall indefinitely. Track SLA adherence as a core metric for your [product analytics](/analytics-guide).

When a user sets an OOO status, automatically reassign their pending handoffs to a designated backup (if configured) or surface them to the project lead. Show the OOO status clearly on any pending review requests so authors know not to expect a response. When the user returns, provide a catch-up digest of everything that happened during their absence. ---