Cost for doing research

When I do my freelance service, sometimes client wants me to do something that I never do before. Lets say a client wants me to create web application that can update his twitter account automatically.

Since I have a basic of programming language, obviously this is something that I'm capable of doing. However, it's just I never have a chance to do it before. So, before I can implement that, I have to do some research.

When you do some research on a request, how do you say that to your client? Do you mention it on your invoice? Or do you just include it in hourly rate?

z_kagenotora

The real answer to this is . . . it all depends. ;^)

If you itemize tasks on your invoice in a way that makes listing research time as a separate line then probably yes you should do this.

If you itemize only by "time spent on tasks related to X" "time spent on tasks related to y" then probably you don't need to.

If you have a minimum or setup fee, some or all of your research time might be a part of that.

In any event, don't be apologetic about having to do research: you can't be expected to know everything about everything and it doesn't mean that you're the wrong person for the job. It is, instead, a way to make sure you give your client the best possible result.

You bill for every hour you spent working for them. If learning was included, bill for that as well. I'd consider it a good business practice to let them know ahead of time about this though.

I did process improvement work for a research lab for 4 years. I was coached to build in time for project management time. I don't see why you couldn't do something similar for your research time.

The least you could do if the client is not agreeing is charge half the hourly rate. But better to clear things out with the client before hand.

If clients wants something from your field, and programming is quite broad than you should not be charging research. Customers don't have to sponsor your process of learning just the service you provide to them. Don't take this the wrong way, but it's not clients fault that you never done that application before.

Originally Posted by Village Genius You bill for every hour you spent working for them. If learning was included, bill for that as well. I'd consider it a good business practice to let them know ahead of time about this though.

I'm doing a lot better with my clients right now. I really realize that communication is the key. Be opened. Additionally, always try to solve everything in advance. Have a written contract. So both parties know what to expect from each other. Thanks a lot!