Companies across all industries use the services of software as a service (SaaS) vendors to help simplify running the business. Almost every SaaS vendor you use hosts a treasure trove of your company data – and you want to make sure you’re contractually protected. Here is a high level overview of key provisions that you should review, re-review, and hammer down on with every SaaS agreement you sign.
Handling the Personal Data of People in Other Countries
If your software-as-a-service business handles the personal data of people in countries, you should get familiar with data privacy laws across the world – because you’re likely bound to them and your customers will require that you comply accordingly. If you violate the laws, you may be liable for hefty fines (or worse).
This goes for the personal data of people in the European Union, United Kingdom, Brazil, Israel, Argentina, Russia, or countless other countries. So – what steps do you take to make sure you are compliant?
The Anatomy of an Enterprise SaaS Sales Agreement (MSA)
If you’re selling a Software as a Service (SaaS) product to Enterprise companies, your customers will demand a strong Enterprise SaaS Sales Agreement. Sometimes they’ll sign yours, but more often than not – you’ll have to sign theirs. This may lead to some back and forth, and lots of redlines. Yay, legal! There are hundreds of templates available online, but you should know what the terms mean – and have these agreements edited to meet your specific needs. Here is a high level overview of what goes into an Enterprise SaaS Sales Agreement:
The Anatomy of a Software Development Agreement
Companies small and large often employ the help of software development firms to build their products. Some eventually hand-off to an in-house team, and others keep the firms to act as their engineering team. Regardless of the arrangement, there should be a clear agreement in place between the hiring company and the software development firm outlining specifics.
The Anatomy of an API License Agreement
Entire businesses are now built off of API integrations. There are some specific nuances that should be contractually identified – this post will give you a high level overview of an API License Agreement.
The Anatomy of an Employment Agreement Package
An Employment Agreement Package are the documents executed between your company and a new employee. Making sure this package has all the necessary documents and provisions following relevant state and local employment regulations, as well as keeping your best interests in mind is important to make sure you are protected. This post will give you a high level overview of what goes into an Employment Agreement Package for a non-executive member of your team.
High Level Overview of Independent Contractors vs. Employees
There are several important legal, benefit, tax, and human resources implications when it comes to Independent Contractors vs. Employees. The parties involved aren’t just your company – but also includes the Department of Labor, the Internal Revenue service, state, and local authorities. This post will give you a high level overview of the difference between the two, and what could happen if you misclassify one for the other.
The Anatomy of a Founder Agreement
Starting a company with a friend or colleague is exciting. But, things can go wrong – and it’s in your best interest to try and prepare for the unexpected. This post will give you a high level overview of what goes into a Co-Founder agreement.
Anatomy of a SAFE Term Sheet
If you are considering raising venture funding, you’ve likely heard of SAFE (Simple Agreement for Future Equity) Agreements. SAFE’s are good for early stage startups raising seed capital from angel investors, friends, and family before receiving institutional venture capital financing. This post will give you a high level overview of the anatomy of a SAFE Term Sheet.
Data Privacy and Security of your Vendors
Data privacy and security is more important than ever, and it extends beyond just your company. It forwards to all of your vendors, services providers, third party apps, and anyone else that processes (or handles) your data – whether it is an advertising platform, email provider, marketing technology, or even your appointment booking system. Vendor Security Assessments help you make sure of this.