Say how many rounds
How many rounds of changes are included, per deliverable or for the project.
Rounds
Two rounds of changes per page
How to write a scope that stops scope creep
“Just one more tweak” turns into a fourth round and a new page. Scope creep isn’t the client being difficult. It’s a proposal that never said where the job ends.
You’ll recognise it
- You’re on version seven of a two-round job
- New stakeholders appear halfway through
- You feel awkward asking to charge for extras
Why it happens
Clients don’t know what a “round” is unless you tell them. A clear scope defines it, says what happens when you run out, and gives a price for extras before anyone asks. It makes saying no easy, and saying yes profitable.
The approach
3 steps, in order
Each step gives the next one something to work with. The worksheet below follows the same order.
Define a round
One consolidated set of comments from the client, sent together. Say who sends them.
Definition
All comments from your team, collected and sent by Priya
Price what comes after
An hourly or half-day rate for extra rounds or new work, so nobody has to negotiate later.
Extras
Further rounds at £225 per half day
Worksheet
Build yours as you read
Fill in each step. Your scope clause updates as you type. It stays in this browser until you choose to keep it.
More Proposals guides
Next problem?
I never know what to put in a proposalWhat to put in a copywriting proposalThe seven sections that get a yesI don’t know what to chargeHow to price a copywriting projectFrom day rate to a fee you can defendThey’ve gone quiet since I sent itHow to follow up on a proposalThree short emails that don’t sound desperate
Questions
Good to know
Won’t this put clients off?
The opposite. A clear scope tells them you’ve done this before.
What if I want to be flexible?
Be flexible on purpose. Waive a round as a favour and say so, rather than letting it slide.
Do I need an account?
No. Your worksheet stays in this browser. Leave your email and we’ll send it as a PDF.
Who writes these guides?
ProCopywriters, the UK’s professional body for copywriters, with members who do this work every week.
Proposals, from Studio
Guides get you started. Proposals does the whole job.
Branded proposals with your services, prices and terms, sent as a link the client accepts online. Coming soon to Studio.