Anyone have a software consulting playbook (negotiation to delivery)?

Question

I received an inbound request for shorter-term, part-time software consulting in a specialized domain. I'm in the SF Bay Area and work full time, they're in a different major tech-hub &ndash; and appear to be well funded.It's been a while since I last consulted, and I was hoping for a playbook to follow to ensure everyone is happy: negotiation through delivery.My questions range from how to set prices, to how to present findings (scope), to how to manage expectations, and how to ensure satisfaction.Any insights HN? Thank you!

aintmeit · Accepted Answer

Sell your soul and slap a smile on your face.

labarilem · Answer

Playbook? Nope but at this point I'm thinking about writing one.Some useful insights here: https://training.kalzumeus.com/newsletters/archive/consultin...

ilaksh · Answer

I suggest billing per half day, pay as you go, and continuous delivery. You go over your progress and get paid, then plan for the next few days or week. Do not go for more than a few days or week without showing progress and getting paid and discussing with the client. Initially progress is just writing down specs or mockups or whatever's but within a relatively short time it needs to be some type of working system. So they should be able to see straight into the development process as its going. And since you get paid after a few days or week, your risk is also reduced.

julienreszka · Answer

Use an escrow, get paid upfront, expect clear specifications, keep the stakeholders up to date as you advance in the production of the deliverables

muzani · Answer

Alan Weiss's Million Dollar Consulting.