What is a Job Statement (SOW) and what are its elements? - If you work in project management, you have probably heard of the Statement of Work (SOW).
If you are familiar with this name, you probably know that there is rarely room for error when writing a job statement. Because a working statement paves the way for future cooperation and is part of a legal agreement, even a small mistake or misunderstanding can lead to disaster.
On the other hand, recording all the important points of the project in advance can save you trouble in the end. This is why you need to make sure that the statement is written correctly. And properly before anyone signs it. We have compiled this guide to help you write a complete and comprehensive work statement.
What is a job statement?
The work statement, also known as the “scope of work“, is a contract document that describes in detail. What is being done in the project.
The Project Management Knowledge Scope Guide (PMBOK) defines a job statement as “explaining the validity of the products or services offered under the contract.”
The Digital Project Manager refers to it as “an agreement between a client. And an agency, contractor or service provider that specifies what is and is not included in a project.”
In project management, the job statement always covers the transaction between the two parties (the project-oriented company and the customer). It is important to note that the job statement is usually attached to the terms and conditions of the contract and should be taken seriously.
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What does the job statement not include?
The term “job statement” is sometimes misinterpreted, mainly because of the myriad of project-related documents that exist in the business development environment. Here are some things to keep in mind. And distinguish between them and others.
Working statement in front of the project charter
These two documents are often confused because both must be signed at the initial stage of the project. However, the work statement is only part of the project charter development process. In addition, the job statement does not allow the project manager to spend the project budget and resources. While the project charter does. Contrary to the project charter, the project statement does not start.
Statement of work against the contract
The job statement is not a contract in itself, but an integral part of the contract, which in turn covers all the exact details of the collaboration and the project. While the job statement can be sent to the client for approval. And is flexible to change and negotiation, the contract is the final stage in the negotiation process that binds the two parties together.
Work statement vs. scope of work
Both terms are often used interchangeably. But depending on the context, there is a slight difference between the two. A job statement is a high-level document that defines a project by providing a mission, deliverables, and success metrics. Work scope (project scope) is the only element used in the work statement and shows the milestones and tasks of the project team to perform and achieve the project goals.
Conclusion
Having a well-defined work statement is the first step to implementing and presenting a successful project. A project that can be delivered on time, within the scope and within the budget. The work statement acts as a reference throughout the project, listing the main purpose of the project and the work to be completed and delivered by the end of the project. All this is achieved by signing the job statement.
