Statement of Work (SOW) template

Free statement of work (SOW) template

A statement of work (SOW) is the official blueprint for any engagement provided by a contractor or vendor, clearly outlining all the specific tasks, timelines, and deliverables. Also called a Scope of Work, the contract is a must-have in service and consulting industries to get both the client and provider on the same page from the start. A good SOW prevents "scope creep" and misunderstandings by detailing exactly what success looks like.

And Docusign is here to help you draft that blueprint. Our free statement of work template provides the essential sections for defining your project's scope, deliverables, and timeline. The form is designed to be easy to edit online, so you can customize it for any project's unique requirements. Once it’s ready, you can download, print, or send it through Docusign for secure approval and signatures. Click on the template below to get your SOW going:

To ensure every vendor or agency project starts with total clarity, a detailed statement of work agreement is essential for businesses. Our Docusign SOW template simplifies the process of creating and signing this agreement, providing a secure, accessible, and professionally documented record of the project's scope. 

Kick off your next project successfully by getting started with a free Docusign account.

What is a statement of work (SOW)?

A Statement of Work (SOW) is a formal document that defines the specific tasks, deliverables, timelines, and responsibilities for a project between a service provider and a client. It serves as a roadmap to ensure that all parties understand the scope of work, expectations, and outcomes. A well-crafted SOW reduces misunderstandings, mitigates risk, and provides a clear framework for project management.

When do you need a statement of work?

You typically need an SOW when:

• Launching complex projects with multiple stakeholders

• Hiring external vendors or contractors for services

• Defining project deliverables, milestones, and timelines

• Establishing roles, responsibilities, and payment terms

• Managing risk and accountability in large-scale initiatives

A detailed SOW ensures all parties are aligned on the project’s goals and helps prevent scope creep or disputes.

What should a statement of work include?

The following sections should be included in every SOW to ensure clarity and completeness:

• Project overview: A summary of the project’s purpose and objectives.

• Scope of work: Detailed description of tasks, activities, and services to be provided, as well as any exclusions.

• Deliverables: A list of specific items or results to be delivered, including specifications and deadlines.

• Roles and responsibilities: Clear assignment of responsibilities for both client and service provider.

• Timeline and schedule: Start and end dates, along with key milestones and deadlines.

• Payment terms: Details on fees, payment structure, invoicing schedule, accepted payment methods, and expense reimbursement.

• Acceptance criteria: The process and standards by which deliverables will be reviewed, tested, and approved.

• Change management: The procedure for requesting, approving, and documenting changes to the scope or deliverables.

• Intellectual property and confidentiality: Ownership of deliverables and handling of confidential information.

• Warranties and representations: Guarantees regarding the quality and professionalism of the services and deliverables.

• Termination: Conditions and process for early termination of the agreement or project.

• Signatures: Sign-off by authorized representatives of both parties.

Additional (optional) clauses

Depending on the specific project or service, the following additional sections may be included but are not necessarily required:

• Dispute resolution: Methods for resolving disputes (e.g., mediation, arbitration).

• Limitation of liability: Caps on damages or liability.

• Force majeure: Handling of events outside either party’s control.

• Governing law: Jurisdiction and laws governing the agreement.

• Subcontracting: Whether subcontractors may be used and under what conditions.

• Reporting and communication: Frequency and format of status reports or meetings.

• Data security and privacy: Requirements for handling sensitive or personal data.