A master services agreement (MSA) sets a legal framework for long-term cooperation between companies.

Instead of drafting a new contract for every project, both parties sign one MSA, while project-specific details are added through separate statements of work (SOWs).

When companies use MSA

Businesses typically use a master services agreement when:

  • long-term collaboration is expected
  • multiple projects will be delivered over time
  • they want flexible project details but fixed general terms

Industries where MSAs are common:

  • software development
  • outsourcing and consulting
  • marketing services
  • manufacturing agreements
  • B2B service contracts

Master services agreement negotiation with business clients reviewing service terms and contract details

What’s included in MSA

Every service agreement is unique, but a standard MSA usually covers:

  • payment terms: schedule, currency, taxes
  • intellectual property rights
  • data confidentiality and security
  • liability, warranties, and insurance
  • dispute resolution methods (arbitration clause is often included)
  • force majeure
  • contract duration and termination terms

Benefits of MSA

  • faster project launches without renegotiating general conditions
  • reduced legal costs and paperwork
  • consistency and transparency across all projects
  • protection for both parties throughout the business relationship

Master services agreement signed electronically with eSign for B2B service contracts and secure business deals

Signing MSA electronically

Once a master services agreement is prepared, electronic signing ensures a fast and secure signing process:

  • eSignatures are legally recognized in many countries
  • no need for paper documents or physical meetings
  • platforms like DocuChain allow both sides to securely eSign and store business contracts, keeping full signing history and transparency

Ready to sign your MSA?

DocuChain lets you eSign master services agreements online — secure, fast, and fully trackable. Sign for free

eSign master services agreement online using secure DocuChain electronic signature platform for service contracts

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