1. Before a project begins
A website enquiry or introductory call is not an engagement. Each project should have a signed agreement and a statement of work naming the contracting legal entities, an Échelle lead, the deliverables, timelines, dependencies, review process and authorised client contact.
The signed documents—not this preview—should control the engagement.
2. Results, acceptance & payment
For a milestone fee, define the measurable acceptance criteria, delivery evidence, review period, revision allowance, invoice date and payment due date. For revenue share, define the revenue base, percentage, attribution method, measurement window, exclusions, refunds, reporting access and when the share ends. State how disputed results are resolved.
The public “no upfront payment” and “pay when results are delivered” messages need contract language that handles partial work, client delays, changing scope and termination consistently.
3. Confidentiality, data & tools
The agreement should identify confidential information, permitted recipients, approved storage and communication tools, access controls, breach escalation, return or deletion at the end, and any restrictions on AI use. If Échelle processes personal data for a client, assess whether a separate data-processing agreement is appropriate.
Client system access should be least-privilege and removed promptly when no longer needed.
4. Ownership & exit
State when ownership of final deliverables transfers, what pre-existing tools or templates remain with their original owner, and whether Échelle or a consultant may show work publicly. Cover third-party material and licences. Define notice and consequences of pause, cancellation, non-payment and scope changes, along with an escalation path and reasonable liability allocation.
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