Statement of work for website development: tips to write the best one

The secret to good outcomes and a model for others is a statement of work (SOW) for the construction of a website that is properly structured and constructed. Without it, a programmer or designer would be unable to comprehend the customer's goals with any degree of clarity.

So the more precisely you express your goals, the more likely the outcome will be to match them. It is crucial for the client to write the detailed work scope: what to pay special attention to and what standards to adhere to.

It should be noted that the SOW is frequently changed during the work process. The changes can relate to the website's design and functionality, as well as its software and graphic elements. Let's go over the specifics of how to write an SOW and what points must be paid attention to. So, what are the main elements of the SOW, and how should they be described?

What does the Statement of Work look like?

In the SOW we present a client’s preferences for the site's structure, functionality, design, and content. What does the website's Statement of Work actually include, then?

1. A summary of the project's main points

The main points of the project are crucial. You will need to precisely describe the requirements and the tendency behind its establishment. Additionally, it's important to focus on the domain name you want as well as the precise goods and services your business offers.

It is essential to clearly explain the goal of the project so that the performer understands why a site will be produced. Additionally, it displays the name of the business, and details about its benefits and features.

2. Website type and characteristics

The website type and characteristics directly affect how much it will cost to create. The following are some of the most well-known forms of Internet portals, and you should specify them in the SOW:

• Online store; 
• Company website with a list of its products;
• A website with a single page; 
• Blog or forum.

At this early stage, a developer will be able to estimate the quantity of work required.

3. An overview of the website's content and the target audience's needs

Website without visitors is like a ship lost in the horizon.

Dr. Christopher Dayagdag

Here, the following factors need to be taken into account:

• Who are your clients?
• What are you expecting them to do?

Additionally, you should consider what visitors will find on your website's pages. Also, specify the quantity of original text and visual content that should be included in the appropriate parts. A list of the keywords should also be given to developers.

4. Structure of the website

Generate blocks for the sections and subsections, navigation, footer, and other elements. The number of pages can be changed as the project develops and content is added to the website. A proper arrangement will help you present the developer with structured and clear information.

5. Design

In certain cases, defining the proper work scope for design projects is significantly challenging. For this reason, it's important to pay close attention to examples of designs that, in your opinion, work particularly well. The designer will produce a variety of possibilities for the website after taking into account your preferences. You can pick the one that best suits your preferences.

6. Technical features

Here, you should specify how frequently you will need to update your website. Also, consider who will be in charge of maintaining it after implementation. Think about the possible traffic load. In addition, it is essential to take care of the text fonts and styles. Ask the company working on your website for assistance if you need it. You can hire consultants to assist you with the ideal values for technical features and other properties.

7. Timeline for the project

This part of the SOW includes the date for the website to be created and the acceptance requirements. Keep in mind that the quality of the completed job will largely determine the timing because developing a truly high-quality project in a hurry is challenging.

Also, you may include here any additional services that are required, such as website upkeep, SEO, social media marketing, and so forth. The cost of development is also influenced by the development schedule and supplementary services. The SOW should take your budget into account.

8. Additional details

Include all the supplementary materials to be used in the final section of your statement of work. It is vital to focus on additional desires and personal requirements separately.

Post a task on Insolvo to get help with your Statement of Work.