

It is often more practical for people to consider creating an MoU first to memorialize key terms of a deal. A contract will contain all the expectations of each party and will define the consequences of the violations.

If parties seek to rely on the other party’s representations, then it will be best to use a contract. On the other hand, a contract is created when one party offers to do something, and another party accepts it in exchange for something of value to seal the deal. In a sense, an MoU is a kinder way to document a relationship. This is also common for businesses when they have informal agreements as referral partners. For example, it can define how two nonprofit organizations agree on sharing information or resources or the use of space. You typically see this among nonprofits and charities. This “something of value” is known as “consideration.” When Is Each Used?Ī memorandum of understanding is generally used when two or more parties mutually agree on a particular matter and would need to put their agreement in writing to outline a relationship in general terms, but do not want to be legally bound. It involves the exchange of something of value as an act of sealing the deal. ContractĪ contract is a written or spoken agreement that two or more parties enter into after the acceptance of an offer. It can serve as a preliminary document before crafting a formal contract. It puts into writing each party’s intentions and actions, although most of the time, it doesn’t detail an implementation process.Īn MoU can be entered into by two parties (bilateral) or more than two parties (multilateral). MoUs are signed by all the parties involved, so it carries the tone of mutual respect while documenting a relationship of goodwill between the parties. Memorandums of UnderstandingĪ memorandum of understanding (MoU) is a written document that describes the agreement between two or more parties concerning their contemplated relationship. Let’s start with a brief definition for each. In this article, we’ll clarify the difference between the two so you’ll know exactly which one to use for your upcoming deal. After all, both talk about agreements, and they’re made between two or more parties. It’s easy to confuse a contract with a memorandum of understanding (MoU).
