: Thanks again Douglas. Going back to my original post, is it
: common to bill for time spent putting a bid together for the company?
Generally, we don't bill for putting together a bid. I mean, if they reject
the bid (and thus have no contract with you) how would you get them to pay?
Also, our customers don't seem to expect that -- they see making a bid as
part of our business model, and so part of our overhead. So we don't charge
to put together a bid, but our rate per billable hour tends to be somewhat
higher than the $40 per someone suggested. Of course, we're a small dev
house with more resources than an individual, and I can't say how that
affects price.
To go back to what DB was saying about contracts, make sure you get all
specs and spec changes in writing before you start. Just to be clear GET
EVERYTHING IN WRITING. Email counts, but have printed, dated copies as
well. Document every communication with the client, and when possible have
them submit their own records of communications as well.
For example, we recently had a client that went through at least two rounds
of spec/scope changes for a set of related apps. I can pull a folder and
show you every email they sent me.
Make sure you keep control of your code until you get paid. Until they say
"That's good" (in writing) and (at least agree to) pay the bill, the code
stays on your server. That way, no stray copies are running around to bite
you in the arse.
I would advise you to find a friend or family member in the attorneying biz
and have them help you write up a boilerplate contract you can edit for each
job.
Hmm. I'm out of thoughts (not surprising -- if I'm too tired for
Neverwinter Nights, I'm too tired for deep thoughts).
G'night, all.
--Ben Doom
Programmer & General Lackey
Moonbow Software
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