3 replies to this topic

[dzinerbear]

Hi all,

I'm just wondering how others are handling the payment process of website evaluation.

I did one a few months back for a guy in my neighbourhood, so it was simple: I wrote the report and picked up a cheque when it was delivered.

However, I'm thinking about how you handle long-distance clients.

Do you require full payment in advance, before you begin researching and writing?

Do you require a deposit to start and full payment before the report is delivered?

I don't have the capability of accepting credit cards at this time, and won't for a while.

Your thoughts are appreciated.
Dzinerbear

[SearchRank]

In most all cases we would request full payment up front for Web Site Evaluation reports. The only situation where we'd possibly do a 50/50 type of deal is if we controlled the site. Once you deliver an evaluation report, they have it and can use it, even if they don't pay your! It's not like web site development where you can pull content if they don't pay.

For long distance clients, it would be best to have some kind of contract along with full payment. That way they are protected as well as you.

[OldWelshGuy]

Payment up front for any intellectual property that can not be taken back, as like pandoras box once it is open and the contents released they can not be put back in, and all you will be left with is hope

(I speak from bitter experience due to my laid back attitude) But i decide that it is better to let the bad guy win now and again than waste time chasing rainbows. After all as you sow, so shall you reap!

you could always set up an online payment like paypal etc to give you the facility to use credit cards, but this again can bring problems, so if you do get payment by CC then be sure to send the items via registered proof of acceptance delivery as it is common for some unscrupulous types to order long distance then go straight to chargeback for non delivery.

[dzinerbear]

Thanks for the replies. I appreciate it.

My hunch was payment up front, but who knows in this world. And thanks for the PayPal tip, I might look into that.

Dzinerbear