Comments on: Free Advice Friday: Using Writing Contracts to Nail Down Projects

By: Lori Widmer

Lori Widmer — Fri, 22 Aug 2014 20:48:36 +0000

The Scope of Work is essential, isn't it? It helps immensely to have everything in writing. Saves a TON of headaches!

By: Ashley

Ashley — Fri, 22 Aug 2014 17:54:29 +0000

You probably remember that you sent me your contract a while back, Lori, and I've been building on that ever since. Any time I hear a good tip to include, I add it to the contract. It has been VERY beneficial in several instances, especially in the Scope of Work portion. There have been at least two occasions in which the client and I had different expectations about the project. For example, one client and I had discussed a certain word count, but apparently we weren't clear at the end about what we'd finally agreed on (I understood 500 words, whereas he wanted 1,000). So that saved us both a lot of grief to have it in writing, where he could review and correct the expectations up front, rather than being unhappy when I turned in the final project!

By: Lori Widmer

Lori Widmer — Fri, 22 Aug 2014 13:18:14 +0000

Absolutely love the idea of what's not included, Cathy! I think that's so smart.

My proposals usually have very detailed timetables/client responsibilities so everyone knows what's due when. It helps when the thing is stalled and they're pointing to me -- uh uh. You have to complete X first.

By: Cathy Miller

Cathy Miller — Fri, 22 Aug 2014 12:25:35 +0000

I use what is called a Statement of Work. Mine is very similar to yours, Lori. It has the following sections.

-Scope of Work - includes type of project (e.g., ghostwritten article, white paper, etc.), word count range, tasks (including conference call, research, etc.)

Also identifies what's NOT included - like graphic design or marketing

- Timetable - targeted dates for tasks including receipt of requested info from client, conference calls, draft

-Fee

-Terms - includes payment terms (e.g., deposit), copyright (until paid in full, I retain copyright), changes to Scope requires amendment to Statement of Work and fee

Confidentiality - mini-Non-Disclosure statement

This has evolved over the years as patterns develop that I want to cover.