How to answer the question: "How much does a website cost?"

This is probably one of the most popular questions asked by potential customers.

At the first meeting, you explain to the client that websites, like cars, are very different. And the price is very dependent on its needs and financial capabilities.

But it is rather difficult to name the final amount when the TK is not written yet and it is not completely clear what the client wants.
To write detailed and good TZ, not being sure that the contract will be signed in the end is not profitable. For this is wasted time. Time is money.
It turns out a double-edged sword.
')
As we tried to solve this problem:
(we are talking about an average web-studio)

First TK - then the contract

1. The client fills in a sufficiently detailed application form for the development of the site.
2. On the basis of the questionnaire and personal conversation, a preliminary calculation is made.
3. If the approximate amount of the client suits, then proceed to the preparation of TK. You understand that for a certain site it is possible to paint everything in a day, and for some it will take two weeks to closely communicate with the customer. Depending on the scale and needs.
4. When the TZ is ready, we recalculate, we remove something, if the amount is too big for the client, we sign the contract and start working.

The layout is ideal for the customer. Already at the stage of signing, he clearly understands what he will receive for his money, and what his website will be like.
But it is not very convenient for the performer: not all after paragraph 3 agree to work and sign the contract.
And the time spent on the preparation of TK, you will not return.

First the contract - then the TK

1. We made an even more detailed questionnaire to maximize the possible "pitfalls"
2. Based on the questionnaire call a more accurate amount.
3. We sign a contract that contains clauses of the following nature:
   - after drawing up and signing the technical assignment, it becomes an integral part of the contract
   - by additional agreement, estimates may be made for additional. work
4. More carefully and thoughtfully we make TZ (the client is already “our”).

For the studio, the advantages are obvious: all work on the project is paid.
But the customer does not like this scheme, because he does not understand what he pays for and what he will receive in the end.

Those. project - contract - TK

1. All the same profile + personal meeting.
2. We voice the approximate cost. If satisfied - go to step 3
3. On the basis of the questionnaire + meetings, in a day or two we draw up a document - a “technical project”, where the essence of the future site is described in very general words.
4. If necessary, change and agree on the total amount.
5. We sign a contract similar to the previous one, with the addition of:
   - The technical task is made within the framework of the technical project and cannot contradict it.
6. Next TK and go :)

Customers like the scheme, but we don’t like it very much.
Anyway, before starting work it is difficult to foresee everything . And customers are often very reluctant to agree on surcharges and recalculations.

The ideal scheme has not yet been invented :)

And how do you solve this problem?