# Master services agreement

Concept · [Business and metrics](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/business)

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](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/equity) of the work, confidentiality, liability), so each new project only needs a short [statement of work](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/scope). [Common Paper](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/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](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/scope) that points back to the MSA.

## Connects to (7)

- [Scope](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/scope): The agreed list of what a project will include and what it will not.
- [Engagement letter](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/engagement-letter): A short contract that starts a professional services relationship.
- [Intellectual property](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/intellectual-property): Things you create that can be owned, such as code, designs, brand names and inventions.
- [Time and materials](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/time-and-materials): A way to pay for services by the hour or day worked, plus costs, instead of a set price for the whole job.
- [Common Paper](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/common-paper): A contract company for startups that publishes free, standard agreements anyone may use and modify, along with software for sending…
- [Cloud service agreement](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/cloud-service-agreement): A contract between a company that sells cloud software and a business that buys it.
- [Contract amendment](https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/contract-amendment): A short signed document that changes, adds to or clarifies the terms of a contract already in place, without replacing the whole contract.

> 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.

Map view: https://ecosystem.samcarlton.com/master-services-agreement