ToolsProject Launch Checklist
Don't miss a step. Standardize your project setup from proposal to kickoff.
Scope & Deliverables
What exactly are you delivering?
Be specific. 'A website' is vague. '5-page website with contact form and blog' is clear.
What's NOT included?
Just as important as what IS included. Prevents scope creep.
How many revisions are included?
E.g., '2 rounds of revisions included, additional rounds at $X each'
What's the timeline?
Set realistic deadlines - and buffer time for revisions
Payment Terms
How much are you charging?
Total project cost, clearly stated
When do you get paid?
E.g., '50% upfront, 50% upon completion' or 'Net 14 days'
What payment methods do you accept?
PayPal, bank transfer, check, etc.
What happens if payment is late?
Consider adding late fees or pausing work
Communication Expectations
How will you communicate?
Email, Slack, weekly calls?
When are you available?
Set working hours and response time expectations
How often will you provide updates?
E.g., 'Weekly progress emails every Friday'
Who's your main point of contact?
Avoid confusion with multiple stakeholders
Legal Protections
Do you have a contract?
Even a simple agreement protects both parties
Who owns the work after completion?
Clarify ownership rights upfront
What happens if someone wants to cancel?
Define cancellation terms and kill fees
Are there confidentiality requirements?
NDA if handling sensitive information
Red Flag Check
Does this client respect boundaries?
Texting at midnight = future problem
Are they clear about what they want?
Vague requests = endless revisions
Do they seem trustworthy with payment?
Trust your gut. If it feels off, it probably is.
Are they respectful in communication?
Rude now = worse later
Don't Skip These Steps
Missing any of these items increases your risk of scope creep, payment issues, or client conflicts. Take time to clarify everything upfront.
Good engagements grow stronger with clear terms. When you set expectations upfront, the dynamics of any working relationship become visible quickly, and that's valuable information.