Taking over a company
Identify the critical positions that contribute most to the organization's strategic initiatives. Use an importance / replaceability matrix. Conduct informal assessments on the people holding these critical roles. The problem with formal assessment is that managers are promoting their people (therefore themselves), regardless of contribution. Get feedback by asking Board members, customers, vendors, peers, etc. Ensure having top performers in the important and difficult-to-replace positions. Make those people heavily interested in your vision and strategy.