As a technology lawyer, I am often asked by clients to
review the statements of work that accompany the technology
contract that I have drafted. Unlike some of my colleagues, I
consider SOW review to be a critical part of the legal
process.
While I don't pretend to be a technical genius, and I always
seek critical input from the client's business and technical
teams, I firmly believe that lawyers can add significant value to
the technology transaction by reviewing and critiquing SOWs.
As most of us are naturally detailed-oriented and picky, we excel
at finding those "gotchas" buried in the SOW that may
have eluded our clients, who are rushing to meet deadlines and
close deals by quarter end to obtain pricing discounts dangled out
by vendors. If acting for a vendor, we can ensure that our clients
clearly articulate their responsibilities to avoid deal
misunderstandings and possible litigation.
