When you send files to a client to fulfill a contract for an e-course, do you send just the folder of published files (whether for web, LMS, CD, etc) or do you also include the Articulate package with all the working files, so they can, if they hire another developer or buy the software themselves, make changes in the course to update it, etc?
Unless otherwise specified, I always deliver source materials. I don't want to hold customers hostage (do unto others). Regardless, it should be spelled out in your contract to remove any ambiguity. Last thing you want is a misunderstanding
I give them everything - in fact is a stipulation that I do this.
Why?
I am an Instructional Designer - not a hosting service for their files. I want them to bear the maintenance and destruction risks of any files, but whilst I may keep a backup, this is their problem, not mine.
If someone commissions me to build a course, I actually do not care if they want to go and find someone else afterwards, most of the time they come back to me anyway.
I positively encourage clients to try and become responsible for their own file maintenance, in many cases, what then happens is that they will increase their skills, and contact me to do the "value-added" services, which is what we should be trying to do - going up the "value chain" each time.
6 Replies
Unless otherwise specified, I always deliver source materials. I don't want to hold customers hostage (do unto others). Regardless, it should be spelled out in your contract to remove any ambiguity. Last thing you want is a misunderstanding
Agree with Steve I would give the source files as well, I want them tio come back because of the quality my work not because they are forced to
Hi Jon,
I give them everything - in fact is a stipulation that I do this.
Why?
I am an Instructional Designer - not a hosting service for their files. I want them to bear the maintenance and destruction risks of any files, but whilst I may keep a backup, this is their problem, not mine.
If someone commissions me to build a course, I actually do not care if they want to go and find someone else afterwards, most of the time they come back to me anyway.
I positively encourage clients to try and become responsible for their own file maintenance, in many cases, what then happens is that they will increase their skills, and contact me to do the "value-added" services, which is what we should be trying to do - going up the "value chain" each time.
That's what repeat business is about.
Bruce
I hoped Bruce would say this, because I agree with everything he says here and didnt want it to sound like my idea
LOL
You are learning well young Jedi.....
Bruce
Its only the quarterly charge that scares me
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