Hey everyone, I'm in a tough spot with a project and I really need some advice. Last year, I helped a company set up a Shopify store after they wanted to start selling their products online. I usually charge for my help, and I put together a contract stating I would assist them in finding an app for tiered wholesale pricing but wouldn't do any custom development myself.
After completing the store design and launching the site, I had a challenging time getting them to provide necessary product information - I even ended up doing much of the work myself, which they said they'd pay extra for, but I haven't received that payment yet. Recently, the owner's partner got involved and has made many requests for additional changes, including complex features that were never part of our original agreement. She wants everything done in just two weeks, which seems impossible given the scope and changes.
I'm worried about overstepping my original agreement and damaging my relationship with them, especially since they've been a good source of work for me. Should I pull the plug on this project while I can, or is there a way to salvage it? Thanks for any insights!
5 Answers
Sounds like they’re trying to shift from a simple B2C model to a full B2B setup without adjusting the expectations or timeline. Pull back and re-establish terms with the new contact. Don’t do any work that’s not been signed off on. And yeah, that two-week deadline is unrealistic!
This client doesn't sound great. I'd recommend you send them a clear written notice stating that all the new changes need a revised contract and to settle any outstanding payments within 30 days before proceeding with anything else. Document everything carefully, too. It's better to protect yourself first before diving deeper.
Trust your gut here. This situation has 'scope creep' written all over it. Set strong boundaries now; if it feels wrong at this stage, it might only get worse!
This is a tough situation, but you can handle it with the right approach. Send them a new contract or change proposal that outlines the new requests and a realistic timeline. If they argue, let them know they can find someone else if they think these timelines are achievable without your expertise. Make sure you don’t start any new work until you have a solid agreement in place. If they're not reasonable, be ready to walk away, as you deserve to work with clients who respect your time.
Don’t forget about the payment for the original scope; that needs to be settled before you agree to any more work.
Sometimes you have to part ways with clients like these. Refer back to your discussions and explain that any new changes will need more time, and possibly additional fees since the original scope was already approved. Make it clear how long new requests will take and ensure you're compensated for it. Stay professional but firm!
Definitely make sure you get paid for what you've already done before signing anything new! If they keep dodging your requests, it's a red flag for future payments too.