Term
Statement of Work (SOW)
Definition
A Statement of Work (SOW) is a document used in project management that outlines specific tasks, deliverables, and the timeline for a project. It serves as a formal agreement that clarifies what each party is expected to deliver by the end of the project.
Where you’ll find it
In Business, you’ll typically find the option to create and manage a Statement of Work in the project management or client services section of the platform. This feature is available across various subscription plans, though advanced functionalities might be reserved for higher-tier plans.
Common use cases
- Creating a clear and detailed list of project deliverables before beginning work to ensure that both client and service provider are aligned.
- Using established timelines within the SOW to manage deadlines and project milestones effectively.
- Serving as a binding agreement that can help resolve disputes or confusion about the scope of work.
Things to watch out for
- Ensure all project requirements are fully detailed in the SOW to avoid scope creep, where additional tasks are required that were not initially agreed upon.
- Regularly update the SOW document to reflect any agreed changes in the project scope or timeline.
- Be aware that the level of detail and the format can vary significantly depending on the business sector and project complexity.
Related terms
- Project Timeline
- Deliverables
- Project Management
- Client Agreement
- Scope of Work