Guidelines for writing an MOU

Step 1: Identify all of the individuals who will be involved in the agreement and hold a meeting to identify the shared functions, services and/or resources. Discuss a plan as to how the institutions/organizations will operate together.

Step 2: Write out the primary purpose or main goal of the agreement and determine what specific outcomes are expected. The purpose statement can include an identification of the parties involved, as well as the terms and conditions of the agreement. Depending on the style and complexity of the agreement, some documents begin with an opening statement or preamble which introduces the names of the parties that are involved in the agreement.

Step 3: Determine a timeline as to when the partnership and agreement will begin and when it will end. Be specific regarding the dates and any other terms determined to be of importance.

Step 4: Write down and determine which organization will be responsible for which services and resources.

Step 5: Draft the memorandum of understanding based on the decisions that were made during the meeting, then let all parties review, sign, date, and authorize the MOU.

ADDENDUM III.

Types of documents used in international co-operation activities