14 Simple Scope of Work Templates (Word) | Free Downloads

A scope of work, also known as the statement of work, is one of the most important documents to any project manager. It helps you stay on course by bringing everything expected in the project implementation together. This includes work details, timelines, terms, and deliverables, among others. At the same time, the scope of work also protects you from running into an unexpected glitch that would otherwise impact the smooth operations of your project. Literally, the scope of work can be viewed as a map that guides a project manager towards the successful completion of a given project. By this, it shows you what to do and what to avoid. A well-written scope of work, therefore, provides a clear picture of the complete project requirements.

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Word Document Scope of Work Template

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12 Simple Scope of Work Templates

Word Scope of Work Template

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Free Simple Scope of Work Template

    Basic elements of a scope of work (SOW)

    Basically, the scope of work document highlights everything that is needed within a project. This includes the person responsible for the implementation of the project, the technicality that will be deployed during the implementation, and the type of materials that will be necessary. As part of these highlights, the scope of work is often comprised of the following elements

    • Project contractor and their responsibilities
    • Contract objectives, visions, and missions
    • An estimate of project labor cost
    • The appropriate method of payment and schedules
    • Operation standards, regulations and contracts terms and conditions
    • An explanation of project limitations and other related activities

    What to include?

    Standard scope of work document usually include the following:

    Project overview

    This is a brief statement that describes what the project is all about.

    Deliverables

    Deliverables refer to what your project/contract is meant to deliver. In other words, it’s the expected goals and targets that must be achieved within the project execution.

    Project scope

    This includes all the strategies set towards the execution of the project. Project scope is often categorized into two, i.e., the technical aspects and the tasks. The technical aspect comprises the techniques or methodologies necessary for project implementation. On the other hand, the task aspect refers to the specific requests or tasks needed to realize the objectives of the project.

    Timeline

    This refers to the project’s lifetime, which ranges from its start to its end/completion. It focuses on the project’s tasks, their delivery dates, time restrictions, and the expected project duration.

    Project management

    This section highlights some key management responsibilities within the project. This includes the administration, relevant stakeholders, and other staff. Plus, it highlights the payment terms and methods well as other regulatory and control measures.

    Milestones

    Usually, some projects can be long, demanding, and complex in their nature. Therefore, a well-written scope of work needs to have tasks broken down into small manageable parts. These small tasks form larger project phases known as milestones. Therefore, as a project manager, it’s necessary to include various milestones in your scope of work in order to make progress monitoring easy. This also ensures you adhere to the initially planned schedule.

    Project Reports

    Within the duration of project implementation, you will be expected to deliver project reports at some intervals. These reports are necessary as they provide a formal record of the progress of the project.

    Tips for writing a good scope of work

    As a project manager, writing a good scope of work enables you to get maximum out of your project. This, in turn, helps you earn a good reputation as well as maintain positive customer relations. Plus, it helps in echoing your professionalism when approaching contracts. Therefore, the following tips will help you write a good scope of work for your clients.

    • First, before putting everything on writing, take some time to understand your customer’s requirements, preferences, and suggestions.
    • Discuss with your team members on the project/contract requirements in detail. Share as much information as possible regarding the same.
    • Use visuals representations in your scope of work. Remember, pictures speak a thousand words. Therefore make good use of pictorial and graphical representations as you can.
    • Identify your assumptions and provide a complete outline of the project/contract management procedures.
    • Be SMART while setting your goals and objectives. Make sure your goals/objectives are SMART, i.e., Specific, Measurable, Attainable/Achievable, Realistic, and Timely.
    • Highlight some of the warranties, service and maintenance terms, and other necessary terms and regulations.
    • Use simple but straightforward language that is easy to understand by all the parties. Also, avoid using vulgar words or those that would evoke intimidations.

    Take Away

    In simple terms, the scope of work is a document that helps establish a foundation for the success of your project. It acts as a powerful tool for keeping everyone accountable for project tasks. The more you make your scope of work clear and updated, the more your project work will flow. Therefore, as a project manager, I always purpose to create a scope of work.

    About This Article

    Jill Newman
    Authored by:
    Business Writing | CPA (Certified Public Accountant), MA in English, BS in Business Administration/Accounting
    Jill Newman is an expert in business writing with a wealth of experience in the field. As a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in Ohio, she has accumulated over 20 years of accounting expertise. Throughout her career, Jill has worked in various capacities, including public accounting firms, nonprofits, and educational institutions. Alongside her accounting background, she has actively honed her communication skills through her academic pursuits, holding an MA in English. Jill has also gained valuable experience in writing through various writing jobs and teaching roles. Her diverse skill set and passion for effective business communication make her a trusted resource in the field.

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