Statement of Work (SOW)

What Is a Statement of Work?

A Statement of Work (SOW) is a narrative description of a project’s work requirement. It defines project‑specific activities, deliverables, timelines and detailed requirements. SOWs are often used with a master services agreement or contract to describe the specific work to be performed.

Without a clear SOW, projects are susceptible to scope creep and miscommunication. By documenting what will be delivered and when, the SOW keeps everyone aligned and provides a basis for measuring progress.

When to Use a SOW

Use a SOW when planning any complex project—such as software development, marketing campaigns, construction, consulting engagements or research studies—that requires detailed coordination between a service provider and a client. The SOW is typically appended to a master agreement and becomes part of the contract.

Key Elements

• Purpose & Background: Explain why the project is being undertaken.
• Deliverables: Describe the outputs or products that will be provided to the client.
• Tasks & Milestones: List specific tasks, sequence of activities and milestone dates.
• Timeline & Deadlines: Set start and completion dates, including any phased deliveries.
• Responsibilities: Clarify what the client and provider are each expected to do.
• Acceptance Criteria: Define how deliverables will be reviewed and approved.

Our SOW template gives you a solid framework for scoping your next project. It’s designed to integrate seamlessly with your master agreement and can be customised for any industry.

Create a Free Account to View Full Linked Contract Model