Re: Price Range for User Manual

[richard_schellens -at- MAIL -dot- GDT1 -dot- COM]

     This is one of those "if you have to ask, you can't afford it" kind of
     deals. If you have little experience estimating how long a manual will
     take you, don't fix price the contract. After you have done several
     manuals (by the hour), you will be in a better position to enter into
     fixed price projects.

     There is nothing more discouraging than trying to finish a fixed price
     project when you know that you are making $.39/hour and you just want
     it to go away.

     All employers/contractors hate the "clock is ticking" feeling.
     However, keep in mind that if you agree to a fixed price, the
     employer/contractor often feels that they own you forever. There will
     constant little changes and revisions, etc. that they will want to see
     included under the fixed price. The only way around this is to have a
     very detailed contract...which can take a long time to negotiate.

     Why not simply say: "I charge $XX per hour for my work. I estimate
     that this manual will take between YYY and ZZZ hours depending on a
     number of factors including how much support your people can give me."

     One last note: house builders are often willing to work by the hour or
     for a fixed price. Generally the fixed price is 15% to 20% higher to
     cover the additional risk. If you explain this to the prospective
     contractor, they will see that paying by the hour may save them money.

     Good luck,


     Dick Schellens

     dicksc -at- england -dot- gdt1 -dot- com

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