In an era where time is money and efficiency is key, the introduction of Standard Agreements promises to revolutionize the contracting landscape. This new model offers a simplified approach to the negotiation process and accelerates the closing of deals. Below, we explore what Standard Agreements are, how they work, and what they mean for the future of legal contracting.

What Are Standard Agreements?

Standard Agreements are a groundbreaking model of contracting that aims to eliminate the tedious back-and-forths traditionally associated with contract negotiations. Unlike conventional methods where customers and providers battle over whose form to use, Standard Agreements begin with a neutral, best-practice template.

Usually drafted by a cross-industry committee of law firms, or independent lawyers, these templates are released free of charge under an open-source license. They provide a uniform starting point that balances the interests of all parties involved.

How Do Standard Agreements Work?

The implementation of a Standard Agreement is a streamlined and flexible process. It begins with a cover page where the client and service provider tailor the Standard Agreement to their unique needs. This tailoring process does not involve redlines or endless negotiations, allowing for a more focused and less acrimonious deal-making process.

Here is a step-by-step look at how it works:

Selection: Parties choose an appropriate Standard Agreement template for their transaction.

Customization: Using the cover page, parties make necessary adjustments to align with their specific requirements.

Finalization: The customized Standard Agreement is executed without prolonged negotiations.

Benefits of Standard Agreements

Users who have adopted this new model report several significant benefits. Firstly, deals are finalized at an incredibly fast pace, thereby saving valuable time. Secondly, the model enhances efficiency as it reduces back-and-forth discussions, leading to a smoother negotiation process. The open-source nature of these templates democratizes access to best-practice legal documents, increasing accessibility. Lastly, the model promotes collaboration by involving various stakeholders in the drafting process, ensuring that the agreements are fair and balanced.

The Future of Contracting

The introduction of Standard Agreements marks a shift in the legal landscape that could redefine how contracts are negotiated and implemented. As more organizations adopt this model, we may see a ripple effect across different sectors, encouraging a new era of transparent, efficient, and accessible contracting.

Standard Agreements also serve as a viable alternative to the increasingly common AI drafting and revision process. As technology evolves, it's essential to recognize the value of both AI innovations and traditional methods, and to use each where most appropriate.