Free Scope of Work Template

Define the Work. Prevent the Creep.

Scope creep is the #1 profitability killer for service businesses. This scope of work (SOW) template gives you a structured way to define exactly what you're delivering, how, and when, before any work begins.

SOW Sections

• Project overview - High-level description and objectives
• Deliverables - Specific, measurable outputs with acceptance criteria
• Timeline - Phases, milestones, and deadlines
• Responsibilities - What you'll do vs. what the client provides
• Assumptions - Conditions the estimate is based on
• Out of scope - Explicitly what's NOT included (most important section)
• Change order process - How to handle requests beyond the original scope
• Payment milestones - Tied to deliverable completion

The "Out of Scope" Section

This is the section most people skip and later regret. Be explicit. If a client might assume it's included, write it here:

• "Content writing is not included. Client will provide all copy."
• "This estimate covers the homepage only. Interior pages are quoted separately."
• "Bug fixes after launch are billed at $150/hour."