Separate Required Field Statement Of Work For Free

A statement of work (SOW) is a document that provides a description of a given project's requirements. It defines the scope of work being provided, project deliverables, timelines, work location, and payment terms and conditions.

Common elements of an SOW include: Project objectives. Project scope. Major deliverables. Tasks that support the deliverables, and which party will complete them. Timeline for completion of work. Location of work and resources, equipment, and facilities needed. Payment costs, terms, and deadlines.

When writing an SOW, procurement teams understand, well, procurement-speak. But that doesn't mean that suppliers will necessarily know what we mean. Consequently, a common issue with SOWs is that obligations are inferred, as opposed to being explicitly stated.

You'll note the activities, deliverables and timetable for the project. It's an extremely detailed work contract that defines the terms and conditions agreed upon between parties and lays the groundwork for the project plan.

Like an SOW, an RFP will likely address budget, timeline, scope and goals. Unlike an SOW, an RFP may also include criteria the client will use to select a vendor, along with examples and expectations vendors should consider when submitting a bid.

At a minimum, the SoW should clearly detail: Project objectives: purpose statement, ie. why the project is happening and what it will achieve.

The following tips can be used as a reference when creating an SOW. Avoid verbs that can lead to vague statements. The phrase "the contractor shall perform" definitively states which party is to do the work. Avoid "should" or "may" because they leave the decision for action up to the contractor.

Be clear enough to lay out all the proposed project details clearly. Be accurate and realistic about promised timelines, due dates, and costs. Be logical enough to be understood by all parties who may need to read and interpret the SOW.