Overview
ISO 17255:2014 - Space systems - Programme management - Statement of work (SOW) defines the purpose, required content and development process for a Statement of Work used in space programmes. Applicable to all types of space systems, product elements and projects, this standard positions the SOW as the contractual baseline that specifies what must be delivered and what management activities are required - without prescribing how suppliers should perform the work.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Purpose and definition of SOW: The SOW describes deliverables and management requirements in results‑oriented terms rather than prescribing methods.
- Process for developing an SOW: An eight‑step lifecycle (prepare, structure, assess, establish preliminary SOW, negotiate, adjust, agree, issue final SOW) aligned with Phase A of systems engineering.
- Prerequisites and team setup: Use a cross‑functional team, apply a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) per ISO 27026, identify customer vs. supplier tasks, compile applicable specifications and a bibliography.
- Content structure: Recommended SOW content sections include:
- Introduction and scope statement
- Work task requirements and required deliverables
- Project management and engineering service requirements
- Product assurance (PA), verification, access and operation requirements
- Data and documentation requirements
- General requirements: Responsibility allocation, data management, integrity, configuration management (referencing ISO 10007), supplementary information and restrictions.
- Guidance on writing requirements: Annexes provide example contents and recommended wording practices for clear, verifiable management requirements.
Practical applications and users
- Who uses ISO 17255:2014
- Programme and project managers in space agencies and prime contractors
- Systems engineers and proposal teams preparing RFPs and bids
- Contract managers and procurement specialists
- Product assurance, configuration management and quality teams
- Suppliers preparing deliverables and compliance evidence
- How it’s used
- Create Preliminary SOWs for Invitations to Tender and RFPs, then develop Final SOWs for business agreements
- Define management requirements that become contractual acceptance criteria
- Structure verification plans, delivery schedules, data deliverables and responsibilities
- Improve clarity between customer and supplier roles, reducing ambiguities that cause schedule and quality risks
Related standards
ISO 17255:2014 is essential for anyone responsible for drafting, negotiating or executing Statements of Work in space projects - helping ensure clear, verifiable contractual requirements and supporting on‑time, quality delivery.