Statement of Work Template, Definition, Format, and How to Write It
In the realm of project management, clarity is key to success. One essential document that serves as the project's guide is the Statement of Work. It is also often abbreviated as SOW. If you plan to create an SOW, you need to be knowledgeable about it. With that, the post is created to help you. In this guidepost, we will discuss what is a statement of work. Apart from that, we’ll share its format, template, example, and how to write one. So, keep reading this to learn more information.
- Part 1. What is a Statement of Work
- Part 2. Format for Statement of Work
- Part 3. Statement of Work template
- Part 4. Statement of Work example
- Part 5. How to Write a Statement of Work
- Part 6. FAQs About What is Statement of Work
Part 1. What is a Statement of Work
A Statement of Work (SOW) is a written document outlining the requirements of a specific project. It includes specific tasks, deliverables, timelines, work location, and more. Also, it acts as a contractual arrangement between a vendor and a client. At the same time, it offers a detailed description of the work to be undertaken. All the essential details, terms, and conditions are included in this document. That way, both parties have a mutual comprehension of roles, responsibilities, and expectations. Apart from these, it is a helpful document that helps reduce disputes and promote budget and cost control. Also, it stands as a prominent tool for businesses, individuals, and municipalities. How? Since it creates a harmonious relationship with one another.
So, having a clear understanding of SOW will help you make an effective one. After knowing the definition, you might wonder what its format is. To learn that, proceed to the next part of this article.
Part 2. Format for Statement of Work
Before creating a statement of work, it’s important to know the several key elements that build it. When you learn the things you need to add to the document, it will be easier to make an SOW. The format for the statement of work must include the following:
Project Title: [Project Title]
Introduction: [Introduce the background of the project]
[Name the parties involved]
Objectives: [State the specific goals and outcomes the project aims to achieve]
Scope of the Project: [Define what the project will cover]
[List the steps for the project to be completed]
Deliverables, Timelines, and Milestones: [List the tangible items, services, or results that the project will make and deliver to the client.]
[Deliverable 1:]
[Due date:]
[Milestone:]
[Deliverable 2:]
[Due date:]
[Milestone:]
[Deliverable 3:]
[Due date:]
[Milestone:]
Resource Requirements: [Specify the resources needed for the project, such as personnel, equipment, and materials.]
Part 3. Statement of Work Template
The template may vary depending on the project. Nonetheless, here’s a simple statement of work template that you can use as a reference:
Get a detailed Statement of Work template.
Part 4. Statement of Work Example
By now, you’ve learned the statement of work definition, format, and template. Now, we have provided an example. So, check it out.
Project Title: Customer Website Redesign
Introduction:
This project involves redesigning our customer-facing website to enhance user experience and increase engagement. The parties involved are Atlas Company (project owner) and Clink Web Solutions (project manager). Next up is John Doe (project sponsor), and finally, Sarah Smith (project stakeholder).
Objectives:
The primary goals of this project are to improve website navigation, implement a modern design, and enhance overall user satisfaction.
Scope of the Project:
The project will cover the redesign of the website's homepage, product pages, and contact form. Steps include conducting a user survey, creating wireframes, obtaining feedback, and finalizing the design.
Deliverables, Timelines, and Milestones:
Homepage Redesign:
Due Date: January 5, 2024
Milestone: User feedback incorporated.
Product Pages Enhancement:
Due Date: January 17, 2024
Milestone: Design approval obtained.
Contact Form Optimization:
Due Date: February 25, 2024
Milestone: Final implementation and testing completed.
Resource Requirements:
Personnel: Web designers, developers, and a project manager.
Equipment: Design software and development tools.
Materials: User survey tools and feedback forms.
Payment Terms:
Payment will be made in three installments:
30% upon project initiation.
40% upon completion of homepage redesign.
30% upon final implementation and testing.
Approval:
[Atlas Company - Project Owner] [Signature] [Date]
[Clink Web Solutions - Project Manager] [Signature] [Date]
[John Rey - Project Sponsor] [Signature] [Date]
[Emma Smith - Project Stakeholder] [Signature] [Date]
Get a detailed Statement of Work example.
Part 5. How to Write a Statement of Work
Writing a statement of work has never been an easy task. So, ensure that everything you need to add to this valuable document is ready. That way, if you have to make adjustments, it’ll be easier for you to do it. Now, here’s a general process on how to create a statement of work:
Start with an Introduction
Briefly describe the project, its objectives, and the parties involved.
State the Scope of Work
Clearly define the project's scope, detailing what is included and what is not. This section outlines the boundaries and limitations of the project.
Determine the Objectives
State the specific goals and outcomes the project aims to achieve. This provides a clear understanding of the project's purpose.
State the Deliverables
List the tangible items, services, or results that the project will produce and deliver to the client. This section helps set expectations for both parties.
Create Timelines and Milestones
Establish a timeline for the project, such as the key milestones and deadlines. This section provides a guide for the project's progression.
State the Tasks
List all the activities or tasks that must be completed.
Explain the Payment Terms
Outline the financial aspects of the project. Ensure to include payment schedules, invoicing procedures, and any other payment-related terms.
Specify Terms and Conditions
Include any legal or procedural conditions that both parties need to adhere to during the project. This may cover issues like confidentiality, intellectual property, or dispute resolution.
Accept and Sign
Provide space for signatures from both parties. Ensure to get your SOWs signed by an authority figure.
How to Make A Diagram for Statement of Work
Do you want to create a diagram for your statement of work to easily understand it? Well, MindOnMap has got you covered! MindOnMap is a top-notch diagram maker available in the market. It is also a web-based platform that you can access on various browsers. Yet, if you want the app itself, you may download its app version. With it, you can draw your ideas without limit. In fact, the program offers several features. It lets you create any diagram using any layout. It provides templates like treemaps, organizational charts, fishbone diagrams, and so on. What’s more, it enables you to make a personalized chart as you wish. This tool has different shapes, styles, themes, etc., that you can use. Finally, it has an auto-saving feature. You can utilize it to avoid losing any essential data from your work. Now, to know how this tool works to create a diagram, here’s a guide for you.
To access and create diagrams online, visit the official page of MindOnMap. From there, click the Create Online button. If you want the app version, simply click the Free Download button below.
Secure Download
Secure Download
Now, create an account so you can begin with your work. Once you see the program’s main interface, you’ll be directed to the New section. Now, select the layout where you want to create your diagram.
After which, from the available shapes and themes, you can choose that will suit your preferences. Design your diagram based on your needs.
Once done, save your diagram on your computer’s local storage. Click the Export button and select an output format from the available options.
Alternatively, you can let others see your work using the Share button. Copy the link so your teammates and friends can view it and acquire new ideas.
Further Reading
Part 6. FAQs About What is Statement of Work
What does a statement of work look like?
A statement of work typically looks like a structured document. It outlines the whole project's details. It includes objectives, scope, deliverables, timelines, roles, and other essential information. So this information can be seen in a statement of work document.
Who usually writes the statement of work?
The statement of work is usually written collaboratively by project stakeholders. Also, it may include significant input from project managers, clients, and relevant team members.
What is a statement of work used for?
A statement of work is used to define the scope, objectives, and expectations of a project. It serves as a formal agreement between parties, providing clarity on roles, responsibilities, and the overall plan to ensure successful project completion.
Conclusion
All in all, that’s everything you need to know about the statement of work. If you want to create one, follow the guide on how to draft a statement of work. Last but not least, you’ve discovered the best diagram maker. It is none other than MindOnMap. With its straightforward interface, you can create a diagram without any hassle.
