0

I have made an indeed silly decision to not send the agreement upfront to my new client, before starting his Web development project... I actually didnt send it because he is a very close person and kind of my role model. So I did not want to appear too formal with him. I know, I shouldn't mix business with personal relationships...

The project itself is going really smooth, no problems with the client and payment and deadlines are also being met on time.

But just so that I can hand over certain rights and responsibilities once the project finishes, and also be clear about the future liabilities, can I send an agreement for approval midway in the project?

He has already paid me two milestones. Basically we completed the website and it is just pending migration to his server and making the website LIVE.

Your answer will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

Improve this question

3 Answers 3

Reset to default
2

If you are already in the middle of the project, you need to decide if it's worthwhile bringing up a "formal" agreement then, or at the end.

The agreement does not need to necessarily contain all the details you would present in an initial agreement (i.e. milestones). It can be as simple as "I, Nil, hereby grant all rights to work performed by September 30th, 2019, to John Doe", or it can be complex.

If you are close with the person, I would talk to them, in person. This way, you can gauge their reaction and feelings, and determine how to move forward that way. Hopefully, you both agree that a formal agreement will keep things professional, and not ruin any personal feelings or interactions in the future.

Improve this answer
1
  • Thanks so much :) This is so helpful
    – Shiva
    Commented Sep 4, 2019 at 3:41
0

you should get this in writing especially if you are going to continue with maintenance in the future. It's always a good idea to set expectations.

Improve this answer
3
  • Okay. So this has to be mentioned in the agreement right? Can I mention these clauses in an agreement and send in the midst of this project?
    – Shiva
    Commented Sep 3, 2019 at 3:43
  • I was just say that as the project is wrapping up you are sending over the agreement for future maintenance work as well as the work that has already been completed. It's a contingency to the website going live. just be matter of fact about it in the beginning as though this is just a normal part of the process.
    – Lijo
    Commented Sep 3, 2019 at 3:55
  • Okay... 😊 I will make sure to do this now. Thanks so much Lijo
    – Shiva
    Commented Sep 3, 2019 at 3:59
0

You can ask them to sign a contract now, and while you are waiting, and perhaps inform them you have to stop all work until the contract is signed. But then you might also lose the whole job.

You can also ask them to pay at different milestones of the project. Make the milestones, and the amount they owe, crystal clear. Then if they miss a payment, you will know they are not serious about paying you.

A professional should have thought about this at the very beginning, but live and learn. These things happen and there is a cost to them. Let's be honest, your oversight is not their problem.

Improve this answer

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.