Service Level Agreements (SLAs) serve as crucial linchpins that bridge the expectations between service providers and their clientele, ensuring both parties align on deliverables and performance standards. The intricacies of these documents might seem daunting, but a well-crafted SLA can fortify trust, streamline operations, and prevent potential disputes. This article delves deep into the world of SLAs, offering insights on crafting effective agreements, and providing both a comprehensive template and a real-world sample for clearer understanding.
Table of Contents
What is a Service Level Agreement (SLA)?

A Service Level Agreement (SLA) is a formalized contract between a service provider and a client that outlines the expected level of service and performance metrics the provider commits to deliver. T
his document specifies measurable criteria such as response times, uptime percentages, and resolution timelines, ensuring both parties have a clear understanding of their responsibilities and expectations. Through SLAs, clients can hold providers accountable for maintaining the agreed-upon standards, while providers can clearly communicate their service boundaries and commitments.
Service Level Agreement Templates
Service level agreements (SLAs) define expected performance standards between a service provider and customer. SLAs outline required service levels to ensure quality of service.
The SLA templates specify measurable metrics like uptime percentage, response time, issue resolution time, and reporting frequency. The consequences of not meeting SLAs are stated, such as credits or penalties. Responsibilities of provider and customer are defined. As an example, the provider ensures 99% uptime while the customer agrees to provide access to systems.
Different SLAs may be created for various services like network availability, help desk support, or application management. More complex SLAs have tiers accounting for criticality of systems. The SLA templates are made before services begin and periodically updated. Clear service level agreements allow both parties to understand performance objectives and hold each other accountable.
Why Service-Level Agreements Are Important?
Service Level Agreements (SLAs) hold paramount importance for several reasons:
- Clear Expectations: SLAs establish a mutual understanding of service expectations, clearly outlining the quality and quantity of services to be delivered, and within what timeframes.
- Accountability: They provide an objective measure for the service provider’s performance, ensuring they are held accountable for any deviations from agreed-upon standards.
- Trust and Relationship Building: By explicitly stating service terms and conditions, SLAs build trust between service providers and clients, forming the foundation of a strong, long-term business relationship.
- Dispute Resolution: In the event of disagreements or misunderstandings, SLAs serve as a reference point, helping to clarify the commitments and facilitating smoother dispute resolution.
- Performance Metrics: They set benchmarks for service performance, allowing for periodic evaluations and continuous improvements.
- Resource Management: With clear expectations in place, businesses can better allocate resources, ensuring they meet SLA standards without overspending.
- Risk Management: SLAs often include details on penalties for non-compliance or service disruptions, helping to manage and mitigate potential risks in the business relationship.
- Transparency: By clearly outlining service standards, SLAs ensure that clients know precisely what they’re receiving, fostering a transparent and open line of communication between both parties.
What are the Main Types of an SLA?
Service Level Agreements (SLAs) are categorized based on various criteria such as the nature of the service, the parties involved, or the functionality they cover. Here’s a detailed guide to the main types of SLAs:
- Based on Parties Involved:
- Customer-based SLA: This is a single agreement with an individual customer group, covering all the services they use. For example, an IT service provider might have a unique SLA for a specific department of a company.
- Service-based SLA: This covers one service that applies to all customers. For instance, a cloud service provider might offer a standard SLA for all its customers who use a particular type of cloud service.
- Multi-level SLA: This type of SLA is segmented to address different aspects of services for different sets of customers. It can be broken down into:
- Corporate-level SLA: Covering all general aspects of service, applying to every customer of the service provider.
- Customer-level SLA: Addressing specific issues relevant to a particular customer group.
- Service-level SLA: Focusing on specific aspects of the service itself, rather than who gets it.
- Based on Service Functionality:
- Network Service Level Agreement: Focuses on services related to network or data connectivity.
- Application Service Level Agreement: Concentrates on the use of an application, detailing aspects like uptime, maintenance, or updates.
- Infrastructure Service Level Agreement: Details services related to IT infrastructure like servers, hardware, and storage.
- Operational Level Agreement (OLA): Unlike other SLAs that focus on the customer, OLAs are internal arrangements between different departments of a service provider. They ensure that the overall SLA can be upheld by addressing inter-departmental relationships and services.
- Based on Service Delivery Method:
- Cloud SLA: As cloud services become more prevalent, SLAs tailored to cloud services have emerged, addressing uptime, data storage and protection, and disaster recovery procedures.
- Telecom SLA: Focuses on services provided by telecom carriers, detailing aspects like call quality, uptime, and network reliability.
- Managed Services SLA: Tailored for managed services, often covering IT support, proactive management, and monitoring services.
- Professional Services SLA: Deals with project-based, non-recurring services, and details aspects like project timelines, deliverables, and consultation services.
- Performance Criteria-based:
- Quantitative SLAs: These are numeric-based SLAs, with objective measures such as 99.9% uptime or response times under 1 hour.
- Qualitative SLAs: These are subjective and rely on judgments like “satisfactory service” or “reasonable effort.” They’re harder to measure but are used when objective metrics can’t be applied.
What does a Service Level Agreement include?
Service-Level Agreements (SLAs) are vital documents in the world of service delivery. They provide a detailed overview of the expectations and obligations of both service providers and their clients. Here’s a deeply detailed guide to what’s typically included in an SLA:
- Introduction/Overview:
- Purpose: Explains the main objectives of the SLA.
- Scope: Outlines the specific services covered by the SLA.
- Stakeholders: Identifies all parties involved in the agreement.
- Service Description:
- Service Definition: Detailed description of the service being provided.
- Service Hours: Specifies when the service will be available (e.g., 24/7, business hours).
- Service Exclusions: What is not covered by the SLA (e.g., out-of-scope services, scenarios).
- Service Performance Metrics:
- Performance Standards: Criteria to evaluate the service’s performance. For instance:
- Uptime/Availability: The guaranteed percentage of time the service will be operational.
- Response Time: How long it takes to acknowledge a customer’s query or issue.
- Resolution Time: How long it takes to resolve an issue after it’s reported.
- Measurement Methods: Details on how these metrics will be measured.
- Reporting Frequency & Method: When and how performance results will be shared with the client.
- Performance Standards: Criteria to evaluate the service’s performance. For instance:
- Roles and Responsibilities:
- Descriptions of what each party is expected to do. This may include:
- Service Provider’s Responsibilities: E.g., ensuring uptime, maintenance, updates.
- Client’s Responsibilities: E.g., timely payment, providing necessary access or information.
- Descriptions of what each party is expected to do. This may include:
- Service Management:
- Service Reviews: Periodic meetings to discuss and evaluate the service’s performance.
- Continuous Improvement: Mechanisms to refine and improve the service over time.
- Customer Support & Communication:
- Support Availability: When support will be available to clients.
- Support Channels: How clients can reach out for support (e.g., email, phone, chat).
- Escalation Procedures: Steps to escalate an issue if initial support doesn’t resolve it.
- Penalties and Remedies:
- Service Credits: Rebates or compensations provided if service levels are not met.
- Termination Conditions: Situations where the client or provider can terminate the SLA.
- Costs and Payment Terms:
- Pricing: Detailed breakdown of service costs.
- Payment Schedule: When payments are due (e.g., monthly, quarterly).
- Payment Terms: Acceptable payment methods, late payment penalties, etc.
- Confidentiality and Security:
- Data Protection: How client data will be protected and used.
- Confidentiality Clauses: Commitments to protect sensitive information shared between parties.
- Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity:
- Plans to restore services in the event of major disruptions or disasters.
- Change Management:
- Procedures to handle changes to the SLA or the services being provided.
- Termination Procedures:
- Conditions for Termination: Under what circumstances the SLA can be terminated.
- Notice Periods: How much notice must be given before termination.
- Data Return/Deletion: How client data will be handled upon termination.
- Review and Revision:
- Revision Mechanisms: How the SLA will be reviewed and updated over time.
- Review Schedule: How often the SLA will be reviewed.
- Appendices/Attachments:
- Additional documents or references that provide more context or detail about the agreement.
What is the difference between SLA and KPI?
Service Level Agreements (SLAs) and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are both essential components in the realm of service management, performance measurement, and quality assurance. While they are closely related and sometimes used interchangeably, they have distinct differences. Let’s dive deeply into a detailed comparison:
Definition:
SLA (Service Level Agreement)
- An SLA is a formal, written agreement between a service provider and a client (or between two internal units) that spells out the expected levels of service to be delivered.
- It sets the expectations and defines the boundaries of a service, including responsibilities, quality, and timing, among other parameters.
KPI (Key Performance Indicator)
- A KPI is a quantifiable metric used to measure the effectiveness and performance of various business operations.
- It serves as a gauge or indicator of how well a particular function, process, or objective is being achieved in alignment with set goals or standards.
Purpose:
SLA
- To define and establish mutual understandings regarding service levels.
- To outline specific commitments about the quality, availability, and responsibilities related to a service.
- To serve as a foundation for managing client (or internal) expectations and settling disputes.
KPI
- To monitor and evaluate the performance of specific activities within an organization.
- To provide data-driven insights that can guide decision-making processes.
- To help identify areas of improvement and track the progress of implemented strategies.
Scope:
SLA
- Often broader, encompassing various aspects of a service, from delivery to resolution times and from availability to quality standards.
- Focuses on the overall service delivery expectations.
KPI
- Targets specific elements of performance within a process, activity, or service.
- More granular in nature, looking at individual or groups of metrics to determine the health or success of an operation.
Components:
SLA
- Definition of services.
- Service performance metrics.
- Roles and responsibilities.
- Penalties and rewards.
- Review mechanisms.
- Termination conditions.
KPI
- Clear metric or measure (e.g., sales growth rate, customer satisfaction score).
- Baseline or target value.
- Measurement frequency.
- Data source.
Flexibility:
SLA
- Typically more rigid since it’s a formal agreement. Any changes usually require discussions and renegotiations.
- Established for a defined period, after which it may be reviewed and renewed.
KPI
- Can be more dynamic, with organizations often adjusting KPIs based on changing objectives or market conditions.
- Can be introduced or phased out as strategies evolve.
Consequences:
SLA
- If not adhered to, SLAs can lead to penalties, rebates, or even termination of service contracts.
- Breaching an SLA can harm the reputation of a service provider.
KPI
- Missing a KPI target might not result in immediate penalties, but consistently failing to meet KPIs can indicate deeper operational issues.
- Underperformance can guide resource reallocation, strategy shifts, or other corrective measures.
Dependencies:
SLA
- Often depends on the negotiation between two parties and a deep understanding of capabilities and expectations.
KPI
- Usually depends on internal business goals, strategies, and capabilities.
Application:
SLA
- Predominantly used in service industries and IT sectors, though applicable anywhere a service is rendered.
KPI
- Applicable across various industries and sectors, from finance and marketing to HR and operations.
In Summary:
While SLAs outline the formal expectations of service delivery between two entities, KPIs are metrics used to gauge performance effectiveness against set objectives. KPIs can be (and often are) part of SLAs, serving as measurable criteria to ensure the agreement’s terms are met. Both tools are invaluable for driving quality, accountability, and continuous improvement in organizations.
How To Write a Service Level Agreement?
Creating a Service Level Agreement (SLA) is a critical step in outlining the terms and conditions of the service provided between the service provider and the customer. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you write an SLA:
Step 1: Identify the Parties Involved
Clearly define the parties involved in the agreement, including the service provider and the customer. Provide details such as names, addresses, and contact information.
Step 2: Define the Scope of Services
Outline the specific services that will be provided, including any deliverables. Make sure to detail the exact nature of the services, timelines, and any special conditions or limitations.
Step 3: Establish Performance Standards
Set clear performance standards that the service provider must meet. This often includes metrics such as response times, uptime guarantees, and quality benchmarks.
Step 4: Determine Monitoring and Reporting Mechanisms
Describe the tools and methods that will be used to monitor the service providerโs performance. Outline the frequency and format of reports to be provided to the customer.
Step 5: Include Remedies for Non-Compliance
Specify what will happen if the service provider fails to meet the performance standards. This may include financial penalties, credits, or other remedies agreed upon by the parties.
Step 6: Define Support and Maintenance Terms
Clarify any ongoing support and maintenance obligations, including response times, support channels (e.g., email, phone), and hours of availability.
Step 7: Outline Termination Conditions
Detail the conditions under which the agreement can be terminated by either party, including notice periods, breach of terms, etc.
Step 8: Address Confidentiality and Security Measures
If applicable, outline the measures that will be taken to protect the confidentiality and security of the customerโs data or other sensitive information.
Step 9: Include Legal Compliance
Ensure that the agreement complies with all relevant laws and regulations, such as data privacy laws. Consult with a legal professional if necessary.
Step 10: Determine Dispute Resolution Mechanisms
Specify the methods for resolving any disputes that arise under the agreement, such as arbitration or mediation.
Step 11: Add Any Additional Terms
Include any other specific terms or conditions that may be unique to the relationship between the parties, such as indemnification, insurance requirements, etc.
Step 12: Obtain Review and Signature
Have both parties review the agreement for accuracy and completeness, make any necessary revisions, and then sign the agreement. Consider having a legal professional review the document to ensure it complies with all applicable laws.
Step 13: Maintain the Agreement
Ensure that the agreement is properly stored and maintained, and that both parties have easy access to it. Regularly review the agreement to ensure ongoing compliance and make any necessary updates or amendments as the relationship evolves.
Who Should Get an SLA?
A Service Level Agreement (SLA) can be beneficial in various business relationships, particularly where services are being provided and clear expectations must be set. Here are some typical scenarios where an SLA should be considered:
1. IT Service Providers
- Cloud Service Providers
- Web Hosting Companies
- Managed IT Services
- Software as a Service (SaaS) Providers
SLAs are commonly used in the tech industry to outline the expectations for system uptime, support responsiveness, data security, and more.
2. Telecommunications Companies
Telecom companies often use SLAs to define the quality and reliability of their services, such as internet connectivity and phone services.
3. Professional Services Firms
- Consulting Firms
- Legal and Financial Service Providers
- Marketing Agencies
These businesses often use SLAs to detail the scope of work, deadlines, quality of service, and communication expectations.
4. Logistics and Transportation Companies
SLAs can be used to define the terms of shipping and handling, including delivery times, tracking, and customer service responsiveness.
5. Healthcare Providers
In the healthcare industry, SLAs can outline the terms of service for healthcare support, response times, and patient data handling.
6. Outsourced Business Functions
- Customer Support Centers
- Third-party Manufacturers
- Supply Chain Partners
SLAs help in defining the performance metrics, quality standards, and timelines for any outsourced functions.
7. Government Contracts
Governments often enter into SLAs with service providers to ensure that public services are delivered according to specific standards and within budget.
8. Retail and E-commerce Businesses
For those offering services like deliveries, customer support, and warranty services, SLAs help in ensuring that customers know what to expect.
The Best SLA Improving Tools
Tracking and managing Service Level Agreements (SLAs) is a critical part of ensuring that the agreed-upon standards are being met. Various tools are designed to help with this task, catering to different industries, sizes, and specific needs. Here are some of the best tools for improving your SLA tracking:
1. ServiceNow
- Use Case: IT Service Management, Customer Service Management
- Features: Automation, real-time dashboards, customizable reporting, integration with various platforms.
2. Zendesk
- Use Case: Customer Service and Engagement
- Features: Customer support ticketing, analytics, multi-channel support, SLA management and reporting.
3. JIRA Service Management
- Use Case: IT Service Desk, Incident Management
- Features: Workflow automation, customizable SLAs, integration with other Atlassian products.
4. Freshservice
- Use Case: IT Service Desk, Customer Support
- Features: Ticketing, automation, reporting, SLA management, mobile app support.
5. SolarWinds Service Desk
- Use Case: IT Service Management
- Features: IT asset management, incident tracking, SLA compliance tracking, integration with monitoring tools.
6. ManageEngine ServiceDesk Plus
- Use Case: IT Help Desk, Asset Management
- Features: ITIL readiness, ticketing, analytics, automation, SLA management.
7. Kaseya BMS
- Use Case: IT Business Management
- Features: Project management, billing, inventory, time tracking, SLA compliance monitoring.
8. ConnectWise Manage
- Use Case: IT Service Management, Professional Services Automation
- Features: Ticketing, billing, reporting, project management, SLA tracking.
9. Salesforce Service Cloud
- Use Case: Customer Service Management
- Features: Omni-channel support, AI-driven insights, reporting, and complete customization.
10. Samanage (now part of SolarWinds)
- Use Case: IT Service Desk
- Features: Incident management, asset tracking, SLA compliance, integrations with IT management tools.
11. Zoho Desk
- Use Case: Customer Support
- Features: Multi-channel support, ticketing, automation, analytics, SLA tracking, AI-driven assistance.
FAQs
How are SLAs monitored?
SLAs are monitored using specific tools or manual methods to track performance metrics. Regular reporting, inspections, and audits can also be part of the monitoring process.
What happens if the terms of an SLA are not met?
If the SLA terms are not met, the remedies defined in the SLA are applied. This might include financial penalties, service credits, or even termination of the agreement in severe cases.
Can an SLA be changed or updated?
Yes, an SLA can be modified through mutual agreement between the parties involved. Any changes should be documented and signed by both parties.
What’s the difference between an SLA and a Service Level Objective (SLO)?
An SLA is a legal agreement, whereas a Service Level Objective (SLO) is a specific goal within the SLA. SLOs are individual performance metrics that the service must achieve, while the SLA is the complete agreement containing all terms and conditions.
How do I choose the right SLA metrics?
Choosing the right SLA metrics involves understanding the needs of the customer, the nature of the service, industry standards, and alignment with business goals. Metrics should be Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART).
What should I do if I’m dissatisfied with the service under an SLA?
If dissatisfaction arises with the service under an SLA, it’s essential to refer to the agreement for the appropriate remedy or dispute resolution process. Communication with the service provider to understand and resolve the issue is often the first step.