Free scope of work template for web agencies
A scope of work (SOW) is the document that defines exactly what the agency will deliver, when, for how much, and what happens when something changes. It's the single best defence against scope creep — and it's used after the brief is agreed and before the contract is signed.
1. Project overview
A short summary of who the client is, what is being built, and the business context behind the project. Two or three sentences in plain English.
2. Objectives and success criteria
What the project must achieve in business terms (e.g. ‘increase demo bookings by 25% within 90 days of launch’). One measurable outcome per bullet.
3. Deliverables
Every artefact the agency will hand over, listed individually: design files, page templates, CMS configuration, copy decks, documentation, training, etc.
4. Out of scope
Explicit exclusions. Anything that could plausibly be assumed to be included but isn't — name it here. This single section prevents most scope-creep arguments.
5. Timeline and milestones
Phased schedule with milestone dates: discovery, design, development, QA, launch. Note dependencies on the client (content, approvals, third-party access).
6. Revision rounds included
Number of revision rounds per major deliverable (e.g. two rounds of design revisions per page template). Additional rounds billed at change-request rates.
7. Change request process
How additional work is requested, estimated, and approved. Includes hourly rate or per-change fee, written approval requirement, and impact on timeline.
8. Investment and payment schedule
Total project fee and the payment milestones (e.g. 40% on signing, 30% at design approval, 30% at launch). Late-payment terms and accepted payment methods.
9. Approval and sign-off
Named decision-makers on both sides, signature block, and the date by which both parties must sign for the schedule above to hold.
This template works best when it starts from a detailed project brief. ScopePilot generates that brief automatically.
See a real sample brief →