Contract for collaboration.
The contract shapes the relationship. A fixed-price contract for uncertain work sets both sides up for a fight about change.
The right model
Ask For
Fixed price for well-known work. Capped time-and-materials for uncertain work.
WHY
Match the contract to the uncertainty.
Working increments
Ask For
Payment tied to working software, demonstrated regularly.
WHY
Not to documents or phases.
Exit points
Ask For
The right to stop at agreed points without penalty.
WHY
Protects both sides.
POPIA terms
Ask For
A written operator agreement covering security of personal data.
WHY
POPIA section 21.
Source: POPIA: Section 21, Security measures regarding information processed by operator ↗
Contract for collaboration, not for blame.