IT agreements are often vitally important to not-for-profits. Common IT agreements include:

• software licences
• web-hosting agreements
• cloud services agreements
• database management agreements
• internet service agreements, and
• telephone or other communication agreements.

There are some specific legal issues that arise with IT agreements, especially when an Australian organisation is entering an agreement with a provider overseas.

It is always important to read the terms of the agreement. Issues to look out for include:

• rolling contracts (where if you sign up for one year, the contract will automatically renew unless you give notice)
• overseas providers - this can mean if you have an issue with your service, it can be harder to enforce your rights under the contract
• indemnities and limitations of liability, and
• data security and compliance with Australian privacy laws.

Extra Resources

• ImproveIT

ImproveIT features resources to help community and health organisations understand information and communication technology.