Concept · Business and metrics

Master services agreement

Also called: MSA, master service agreement, master agreement, services agreement terms, professional services agreement, PSA

A contract that sets the general terms between a client and a provider once (payment, ownership of the work, confidentiality, liability), so each new project only needs a short statement of work. Common Paper publishes a free, standard template for this kind of contract (Professional Services Agreement), with a matching statement of work.

For example: A startup signs an MSA with a design firm. For each new project after that, both sides sign a one-page statement of work that points back to the MSA.

Connects to 7

• Scope Concept
• Engagement letter Concept
• Intellectual property Concept
• Time and materials Concept
• Common Paper Tool
• Cloud service agreement Concept
• Contract amendment Concept

This glossary is plain-language orientation, not legal or financial advice. Before you decide on a company structure, a contract, taxes or a fundraising deal, talk with a lawyer or an accountant.