Well this is a leading question.

Truth is I negotiate my charge rates dependant upon the client and the size of the project. I do however only use a standard "Flat" hourly rate approach (Ie: No overtime on costs).

I also offer daily, weekly and monthly rates. All are geared to give the client a significant discount because of the block booking involved.

I also have a low hourly rate for travel. It only applies for projects outside the Perth metro area.

I will in some cases be prepared to offer a fixed quote. This very much depends on the scope of work involved in a given project. However it is sometimes nearly impossible to judge with precision at the outset how long any given project or part thereof will take.

I do however believe in only charging for time actually taken (If on hourly rate option) and to facilitate this I log times in min 6 minute units.

When requested to work outside the Perth metro area I require expenses to be covered and a per-dieum. The per-dieum varies if overseas projects are involved.

For more complex projects I often develop with the client a simply contract where the scope of work and deliverables are defined. This would by default also include the clients obligations and the commercial terms and conditions to be applied.

I prefer a formal Purchase Order be raised but I can work off an email, FAX or letter authorisation.

Terms vary again dependant upon the client. I seek to always minimise my risk. In some cases I may even request a deposit be paid.