Glossary term
Statement of Work (SOW)
The section of a contract describing the work to be performed, usually prescribing methods and deliverables.
A traditional SOW specifies what the contractor will do and often how, including tasks, deliverables, and schedule. It contrasts with a PWS, which specifies outcomes, and a SOO, which specifies objectives and asks the contractor to propose the work. Which one an agency issues tells you how much latitude your technical approach actually has.
Categories
- solicitation
- performance
Related terms
- Performance Work Statement (PWS)A statement of work expressed as outcomes and measurable standards rather than prescribed methods.
- Statement of Objectives (SOO)A brief document stating the government's high-level objectives and inviting offerors to propose their own performance work statement.
- Contract Data Requirements List (CDRL)The list of data deliverables a contract requires, each with format, content, and delivery schedule.