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Steps of a Project for a Freelance Web Builder
By Rachel Goldstein
As a new freelancer, there is nothing scarier then starting your first project. This
article will take a closer look at the steps you should follow when in charge of a
project. Hopefully, if you are aware of what the process should be, you won't be as
concerned about getting things right. Since I am assuming that this is your first client,
return business is essential to growing your business. Follow the below steps from start
to finish and you should have a happy client and a check in your hands.
1. Track Time
It is important to track your time when you are working on a project. Start logging
time as soon as you start to give your attention to a project. Place a time log into a
new docket and write onto this log start and finish times along with other detailed
information every time you work on this project.
Take a look at a good time log at Figure I.
Figure I.
| DATE |
| TASK / ACTIVITY |
| COMMENTS |
| START |
| FINISH |
| TOTAL TIME |
For several reasons, it is important to use the time log accurately. First and
foremost, your client might expect you to break down your hours for him so they are
aware of where their money is going. Secondly, in order to increase your productivity,
examining where your time is being spent is essential. After freelancing for a while
you will be able to figure out how much to bid on projects easily from experience.
2. Open Up a Docket
A docket is a huge envelope or sleeve to keep all papers together. Nothing looks worse
than going to a meeting with a client and forgetting essential paperwork. In order to
escape this possibility, I suggest using a docket for each individual project.
I recommend using a black marker to distinguish this project from other projects.
I have always named my project's computer files and dockets by the company's name
and then follow this with consecutive numbers. So for example, XYZCompany001
would be XYZ Company's first project.
3. New Custmer?
If this client is working with you for the first time you should start an information
sheet on him or her. You might not think that this is important, but if this client ends
up being a dead beat, you will be glad to have his or her address and phone number. After
you have completed this form, place it in your docket.
4. Schedule Stages of a Job
Start every job with a piece of paper. List steps that need to be involved in order
finish production. Otherwise, you might get stuck with having to go backwards three
steps in order to go forwards again. Sometimes stages of a project will need to be
reworked because you didn't take the time to write down your game plan. Try not to let
this happen to you.
5. Contract
Protect yourself against problem clients by writing a contract. Make sure to have your
client sign and send back the contract before starting the project. You can find generic
contracts for your business on the Internet. Here are some places to find contracts to
customize for your own business:
Manage Jobs Software Digital Contracts Online Smart Agreements Contract Swipe File
Law.net Legal Documents Online Sample Freelance Contract.
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