Ensuring Flexibility in Web Design Projects

The possibilities are endless when it comes to web design and web projects, but to make sure that all projects run smoothly, web designers should consider a contract amendment to ensure that they have the flexibility to adapt to their client’s demands, including those never-before-imagined “new” features. The flexibility of Parallax Pro lets the builder choose from a variety of homepage layouts, color options, and other layouts that are not merely templates. While this allows the web designer to be unique and creative by setting up a new site, or even a new look for an existing site, this flexibility does not always mean that they can always adjust to their client’s demands, particularly in the middle of a project.

In the busy world of web design, changes can happen at any point. Small or mid-sized businesses who utilize contract web designers often face pressure to adjust to everchanging design demands. Say, for example, that the designed website included an animated video that the customer no longer wants but would like to have a graphic slideshow that scrolls through several images. This scenario might not seem like a big deal. However, these are the types of changes that could arise and add hours onto what was originally planned.

A new tool that can help clients and web designers is a contract amendment that is created to seamlessly incorporate new design features. A contract amendment provides a useful resource that formally and legally changes a contract without creating an entirely new contract. An amendment is a good option in the event that a new contract cannot be executed for some reason. As with most important business documents, a web designer should always review an existing web design contract for any clauses or obligations that may affect an amendment. If a client terminates the contract without cause, the contract terms may be enforceable in calculating whether there is a breach. A contract amendment is also a useful tool for cataloging the changes made that were not part of the initial project.

Creating a contract amendment is a simple process. Like a contract, an amendment identifies the parties and describes the nature of the relationship. The amendment then identifies the contract or contract number to be amended. Amendments may also explain whether there is a full or partial amendment. The amendment should describe the nature of the amended term, including which part(s) of the contract were changed. The parties sign the amendment below the signature block, and it can be added as an exhibit to the original contract so there is no confusion.

Some of the key elements that can be added to a sample contract amendment template for web projects are as follows:

• The above items are not an exhaustive list of all provisions and items that are important to a web project contract amendment. It is important to remain professional during the discussion of a contract amendment, and to add the requested feature without adding more time to the project, if possible. Changes can take a long time if the web designer needs to learn how to add the requested feature. If an item is added that requires substantial extra work, the hourly or project rate should be reviewed to determine whether the cost of the project needs to be increased to reflect the extra hours.

A sample contract amendment template is only one aspect of ensuring that a web project or website is error free. For any significant changes to a project, it is important to document design changes so that both parties understand what is included and can approve any revisions to the proposed look or functionality. Documentation can provide the business with the tools to identify when a change is minor and can be implemented without additional costs, regardless of how many hours it takes to implement the change.

Design freedom and contractual security are both important to the interaction between client and contractor. The client needs contractual security to ensure that problems are addressed if allowed to occur. On the other hand, if the contract is too focused on detail, it can be restrictive to the web designer who is trying to provide the greatest possible service. Balance is vital for long-term business.