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PLAYBOOK TEMPLATES

Research Collaboration Agreement

A Research Collaboration Agreement outlines cooperative research activities between institutions or companies. This playbook discusses IP ownership, publication rights, and funding obligations.

Audit & Record-Keeping

Why This Matters: Effective audit and record-keeping provisions help detect non-compliance early and support defense in investigations or disputes.

Negotiation strategy

If you're the Institution A:

Ensure the contract includes comprehensive audit rights and clear record retention requirements. Negotiate for access to all necessary documents and personnel to facilitate audits.

If you're the Institution B:

Limit the scope of audit rights to protect sensitive information. Ensure record retention requirements are reasonable and comply with applicable laws.

Essential elements

1

Audit Rights

Rights to audit operations and records.
2

Record Retention

Maintain records for five years.
3

Documentation Review

Review and copy performance documentation.

Action framework

ACCEPT

Propose edits if audit rights are too broad or retention periods are excessive.

EDIT

Reject if the clause imposes unreasonable burdens or risks.

ADD

Add provisions if audit and retention clauses are missing.

PRO TIP

Always ensure audit rights include reasonable notice and business hours to minimize disruption.

Real-world examples

FAVORABLE

Preferred Audit Rights Clause

"The Client shall have the right to conduct audits of the Contractor's operations, books, and records to verify compliance with the terms of this Agreement and applicable laws and regulations. Such audits may be conducted upon reasonable notice and during normal business hours. The Contractor agrees to provide access to all necessary documents and personnel to facilitate the audit process."
NEUTRAL

Standard Record Retention Clause

"The Contractor shall maintain records for a period of at least three (3) years following the termination of this Agreement."
UNFAVORABLE

Restrictive Audit Rights Clause

"The Client may only audit financial records with prior written consent from the Contractor."

Alternative scenarios & positions

High-Risk Projects

In high-risk projects, more frequent audits and stricter record retention policies may be necessary to mitigate potential compliance issues.

International Agreements

International agreements may require adjustments to audit and record-keeping clauses to comply with varying jurisdictional laws.

Data-Sensitive Industries

In data-sensitive industries, ensure audit rights do not compromise data privacy and security standards.

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WEEK 1
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WEEK 2
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WEEK 3
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Your team builds initial playbooks, reviews existing clause libraries, and trains the DocJuris agent to align with your internal standards and negotiation positions.
WEEK 4
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