How it Works
- With a Flexible Retainer in place, you send requests (of any size) whenever you want.
- With smaller requests I typically just go ahead and do them.
- With larger requests I will let you know when I can get started and an estimate on how long it might take to complete.
- I’ll keep in touch with progress.
- Our Flexible Retainer is adjusted at a reduced hourly rate, with no time minimum.
- I’ll notify you when we’re reaching the end of the retainer*, and there is an online portal available for 24/7 access to check usage and balance.
* retainer usage is generally debited daily, so there is a small chance we could hit a zero balance in one packed day without warning. Efforts are made to avoid this, but it’s possible.
Investment
There is a minimum investment block for the Flexible Retainer, typically about eight hours. Client-collaborators sometimes opt for a higher value to simplify their own administrative tasks and make sure I will be able to respond nimbly to their requests.
Flexible Retainer Notes
- Flexible Retainers do not expire.
- You will not be billed by calendar period.
- All requests received will be treated as “as soon as possible” requests. By consolidating your requests you may save some file management time (opening, closing, uploading, downloading, etc).
- Rush requests (requested to be completed faster than estimated) will be billed at double value. Rush turnaround may not always be possible.
What is Billable under the Flexible Retainer?
- Touching site files and the time to manage them
- Providing "how-to"s in any form
- Consultation/recommendations (see “what is consultation?” below)
- Research
- “Fixes” involving anything since the original work was completed: new browsers/versions/devices, self-updated CMS/add-ons, site hackings, force majeure, etcetera
- Communication time to complete requests
It should be noted that I rarely bill for quick phone calls or emails that technically involve consultation. However, I reserve the right to do so.
What is NOT Billable under the Flexible Retainer?
- Any communication not falling under the above guidelines (i.e. social chats)
Refund Policy
The Flexible Retainer is offered at a reduced hourly rate. If for any reason you want to end our retainer I’ll calculate the time used from the current block at the standard hourly rate. If that total is more than what was paid in I’ll ignore the difference and we’re square. If that total is less than what was paid in I will refund the difference.
Standard Hourly Work
If the Flexible Retainer option doesn’t fit your needs, here is another option: I give you an estimated time to completion and bill you at the Studio Rate with a one-hour minimum. Invoices are sent every two weeks or upon completion of the work, whichever comes first. Payment is requested upon receipt of the invoice. New work cannot be undertaken until past invoices are settled.