We have been approached by potential clients who ask, “How much for this project?”, or, “How long would this take?”
The problem is, some do not even have specs nor wireframes…
As a developer, what you should do?
First. You can ask clients to draw page sketches and some specs, otherwise you cant quote any fees.
Although this is a very reasonable and responsible approach, this can potentially drive clients away.
Irresponsible developers who can generate estimates based on a 100-word specs, or as simple spec as ‘a clone of site X’, is most probably, well, irresponsible; but they could be more attractive to clients who are shopping for developers
Two. You can be a consultant and together with the client, milk your ideas, and help draw page sketches and write some simple specs. Although this is very noble, this is most probably not good for you.
You have spent lots of time, and you may not get the deal after all.
You should write an NDA before giving up your ideas. After all, you dont want to draw specs, not getting the business, and have that specs sent to a cheaper developer 🙂
Three. Just like number Two, but charge the client for your consultation. I’m not sure yet if clients are open to this though.
Four. Find clients who already know what they want. In general they are the more serious & more solid budget-wise after all.
What do I suggest out of these four?
In general I suggest number (4). But if it’s not possible, the answer is ‘it depends’.
You should have a mechanism to know what type of client the person is.
Does he represent an established company with solid budget?
Is he a startup with an idea? If he is, does he have the necessary funding?
Note that albeit we want to help as many clients as possible, we have to be concerned about client’s budget. Most of the time, relationship goes messy because the client doesnt have anymore funding…
All in all, I suggest number (2), especially if you have the time and resources. Number (3) sounds an overkill; unless you can give a very good consultation.
Number (1) is good too, since if the client is serious and interested in you, he’ll draw some specs and get back to you. If he doesnt get back, follow up!
OK now with page sketches and specs, you can now answer “how much” and “how long” 🙂
Still an estimation though. Suggest for Agile Development, the client is probably interested…