Working on a web design project not only requires designing skills, but business knowledge as well. When a client offers you a new project and you like the scope of work, you should prepare a contract to mention all the minute details of work procedure to avoid any arguments later. A written contract is a must for every web design project because it leaves no doubt in the client as well as the designer’s mind. You know exactly what you need to do, and the client knows exactly how much he needs to pay. One of the biggest benefits of a written contract is that if the client breaches an agreement, you can file a case against him.
Do you know which points need to be included in a web design contract? Here is a guide on how to write a website design contract. Whether you run a web design company or work as a freelancer, read this article to create professional contracts.
#1 Clearly State of the Scope of Work:
You must break the project into small parts and mention all the things that you need to do. Every small details matter, while writing the project proposal. For example, how many pages will be created, which CMS will be used, whether you need to create the logo or not, the content is required or not and many more things. Everything must be clear to both parties.
#2 Mention Number of Revisions:
It is quite possible that once you submit the website design, the client may ask you for a few changes. In fact, he may request you to change the entire navigation pattern or the home page design. One time revision is not an issue, but if the client is finicky, then he may keep asking you for revisions after revisions. Therefore, you must mention how many revisions are free.
#3 Note Down the Important Dates:
You will complete the project step by step and the important dates need to be mentioned so that the progress of the project can be tracked. For example, layout completion, CMS customization completion, programming completion, website upload date etc.
#4 Clarify Payment Details:
Generally, web designers ask for 50% of the total project amount in advance. If you prefer other payment models, you must mention the payment details to make sure client knows when he needs to pay and how much he needs to pay. Also write down the payment mode to make the process hassle free. For example, you may request the client to pay via PayPal only.
#5 Notify About Copyright:
Copyright of a website is a very critical issue and generally the client gets complete copyright after project completion. However, if you have used some graphics or any other element that you wish to use in other projects as well, then mention that in the contract.
#6 Tell the Client that you need the Credit:
In order to get new clients, you need to prove that you have created some great websites. Hence, note down in the contract that there will be a link of your site on the client’s website. For example, “This website is developed by xyz.com”. This way you can prove to new clients that you have built the site and also the visitors of your present client’s website may contact you for their web development projects.
#7 Cancellation Terms and Conditions:
It is quite possible that a client may ask you to stop the project midway due to any problem. Note down the cancellation terms and conditions in the contract so that your hard work does not go in vain. For example, cancellation can only be done if both parties agree; the advance payment is not refundable etc.
Apply the suggestions mentioned above and you will be able to write a professional web design contract.