SOW or the statement of work is a detailed description of the outcomes of the project in terms of what products, services or results are expected from the project. Most detailed SOW are usually given by the customer if he is the one requesting the project.
In a project management interview, the correct answer to the question “What is a SOW?” would be:
“A SOW, or Statement of Work, is a formal document that outlines the scope, objectives, deliverables, and timeline of a project. It serves as a comprehensive guide for both the client and the project team, detailing the expectations, responsibilities, and requirements of all parties involved. The SOW typically includes key components such as project objectives, project scope, milestones, timelines, resources, assumptions, constraints, acceptance criteria, and sometimes pricing or payment terms. It acts as a contractual agreement between the client and the project team, ensuring alignment and clarity throughout the project lifecycle.”