Buying Source Files
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- scrap_paper
How much extra would you charge for a project if the client wanted to purchase all the source files?
Would you go by percentage? Say 30-40% on top of final delivery fees?
Would it change depending on the type of project?
- Gucci0
I think it def. changes depending on the type of project.
What are these files worth to them? Why do they want them?
- scrap_paper0
They're intention is to do text changes themselves down the road. Or have the opportunity to take it to someone else basically.
I'm running into the most concern with a book project I am estimating on. The client wants the source files when the project is finished for their own purposes.
- skelly_b0
This sounds like a contract issue. I get the impression most clients assume those files belong to them. You make someone very unhappy if you try to charge extra. How is it more work for you to hand those off to them?
I always just add the caveat: You break it, I charge you to fix it.
- Gucci0
If they're going to be taking the work out of your hands and you know it beforehand - charge extra right out of the gate. As skelly says, some people figure they own those files so it's tough to charge them for it afterwards unless it's written in a contract somewhere.
I know people who sell their design services as "consultation" so any files that the client requests be handed over are not part of their original agreement and are subject to different fees, taxes, etc.
In the case of web work, the client is paying for the design, not for the intricacies of code etc. If they want that stuff - they have to pay extra. A book is different though - and yes ... skelly's caveat is a must. Play nice with them if you really need their business, but be fair to yourself too.