Terms of Reference
Set the Scope, Standards, and Success Criteria Before You Begin
Projects fail when expectations aren’t clear. That’s why elite institutions, global firms, and public agencies all begin with a Terms of Reference (ToR).
At JKNC, we craft a Terms of Reference that defines exactly what a project will do, how it will be done, who’s responsible, and what outcomes are expected—before the first task begins.
Whether you're launching a new initiative, hiring a consultant, restructuring a department, or starting a government-aligned program, the ToR is the master reference that prevents scope creep, miscommunication, and costly rework.
This isn't just a planning tool. It's a governance document—recognized globally as a standard in strategy, procurement, and project management.
Our process transforms assumptions into agreements, and informal ideas into official direction. This is the document you wish you had before your last big project went sideways.
A formal, professionally structured Terms of Reference (ToR) document that outlines:
Project Title and Background
Objectives and Intended Outcomes
Scope and Limitations
Key Deliverables
Methodology or Approach
Roles and Responsibilities
Timeframe and Milestones
Budget (if applicable)
Approval Structure and Escalation Protocols
Every section is tailored to the client’s context. Whether it’s for internal approval, external engagement, board endorsement, or bidding purposes—this is a governance-level document built for clarity, accountability, and alignment.
This deliverable turns confusion into control.
It helps your organization:
Avoid vague commitments and “moving goalposts”
Set expectations across departments, teams, or vendors
Secure leadership approval before investing resources
Provide a single source of truth for stakeholders
Establish accountability and ownership at the start
Align everyone before kickoff—especially for high-stakes projects
Whether you're working with external partners or managing an internal transformation, the ToR protects your time, money, and strategic intent.
Once finalized, the ToR serves as the governing document for a project or engagement. Use it to:
Present your project plan to executives or partners
Secure sign-offs before resourcing begins
Include as part of a bid or Request for Proposal (RFP)
Align project managers and department leads
Anchor project reviews and progress reports
Limit liability by referencing agreed-upon scope
Many clients embed this into their compliance workflows, procurement processes, or onboarding protocols for vendors and consultants.
This deliverable follows the full JKNC Deliverable-Based Consulting Lifecycle:
Pre-Onboarding
Client submits a request. Project or initiative is confirmed to fall within the Strategy or Management Consulting domain.
Discovery Phase
Lead Consultant conducts interviews or receives briefing docs to capture full context, stakeholder map, and outcome expectations.
Proposal & Engagement Terms
JKNC sends a formal quotation. Work starts only after written approval is received.
Client Onboarding
Scope boundaries, reference documents, and strategic alignment are finalized.
Document Compliance
Clients submit inputs including prior plans, background memos, or stakeholder roles to ensure accurate framing.
Execution Kickoff
The JKNC team drafts a version of the ToR based on interviews, research, and frameworks.
Internal Peer Review
Document is validated by senior consultants to ensure quality, coherence, and client-readiness.
Delivery
Final ToR is delivered in PDF and/or editable format. Optional walkthrough session may be scheduled.
Signed Quotation Approval Form
Completed Client Intake Form
45-minute Discovery Session with project sponsor
Background documents (project proposals, org memos, internal briefs)
Initial list of expected roles and outcomes
Timeline (if available)
One Terms of Reference document for a single project, engagement, or initiative
Covers scope, responsibilities, and expectations—based on industry standards
Not a project charter, feasibility study, or budget proposal (unless quoted as extension)
One-time output; revisions beyond 2 rounds may incur additional charges
PDF (standard)
Editable Word format available upon request (additional charge)
10–15 business days standard delivery after Discovery
Available in English (Filipino version optional)
Conducted online via Zoom or Google Meet by default
In-person session at JKNC Cebu office available (no charge)
Onsite presentation at client’s Metro Cebu office available upon request (fees may apply)
Sessions outside Metro Cebu: subject to travel and per diem charges
Clients may request a 1–3 hour ToR Alignment Workshop to walk internal teams or external vendors through the document.
Includes:
Facilitated session by JKNC consultant
Clarification of roles, responsibilities, and deliverables
Alignment Q&A to ensure smooth project execution
Highly recommended for multi-stakeholder or cross-functional projects.
To formally define the direction, structure, and expectations of a strategic initiative—ensuring clarity before execution. The Terms of Reference provides the organizational foundation for accountability, alignment, and strategic discipline.