Can I amend the MSA during its term?

Yes, but any change must be agreed by both parties via a written amendment.

Does each SOW need to be signed by the same person as the MSA?

It depends on the authorisation. If the MSA allows a different authorised representative to sign SOWs, that is fine — best to state this explicitly in the MSA.

What if the MSA and SOW terms conflict?

Specific SOW terms typically take precedence over general MSA terms. We recommend stating this explicitly in the MSA (e.g. "in case of conflict the SOW prevails").

Can an MSA cover sub-contractors?

Yes — an MSA can define conditions for the entire supply chain including sub-contractors. Sub-contractors should be bound by the same standards through a sub-contractor agreement.

Master Service Agreement

Commercial

A long-term client relationship built clearly and fairly.

Start free Features

GDPR compliant · EU-hosted

Contract Templates Agency Agreement Master Service Agreement (MSA) All templates

Companies with an MSA close new projects 60 % faster

An MSA reduces negotiation volume by 40 % compared to individual project contracts

The average lifespan of an MSA is 3–5 years

MSA + SOW structure — define general terms once and bill individual projects via Statement of Work.

Legal context

An MSA is an unnamed commercial contract. Each SOW is a supplement to the MSA. eIDAS electronic signatures are valid for both the MSA and each individual SOW.

Commercial Code § 269(2) — unnamed contract; eIDAS Art. 25(1) applies to both MSA and SOW

Legal basis & glossary

When to use a Master Service Agreement

For long-term collaboration with an agency or IT services provider
When you plan multiple projects with the same partner
To structure a relationship with a strategic vendor
When you want to set terms once and not renegotiate for each project

What you get

MSA + SOW
SOW versioning
IP and confidentiality
Penalties and SLA

How it works

From idea to signature

MSA + SOW

SOW versioning

IP and confidentiality

FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Master Service Agreement

An MSA sets the general terms (payment, confidentiality, IP, penalties) for all future projects. Each project then has its own SOW with scope, price and timelines.