Cart%20-%20This%20is%20a%20variation%20of%20the%20standard%20Web%20Site%20Development%20Contract.%20Edit%20as%20needed%20to%20create%20your%20starting%20contract%20for%20your%20business.%20Each%20client%20may%20require%20modifications%20to%20the%20standard%20contract%20which%20you%20will%20need%20to%20deal%20with%20on%20a%20per-project%20basis.%20Hundreds%20of%20specialty%20contracts%20available%20from%20ProposalKit.com. "Pin to Pinterest")
Get 20% off ordering today: 
How to write your Web Development Contract (Client Centered)
We include this 5 page template with IT/Software/Hardware Contract Pack and the Proposal Kit Professional. You will get more content and software automation for data merging, managing client documents, and creating proposals with line item quoting with a Contract Pack or the Professional.
DOWNLOADABLE, ONE-TIME COST, NO SUBSCRIPTION FEESThis version was created by common request from many developers wanting a comprehensive contract, without the clauses their clients found objectionable (typically regarding copyright ownership). The client-centered version gives the client basically rights to everything done (except to your preexisting material). Normally we do not recommend this, as it will prevent the developer from leveraging work created on a project for future use in other projects. It is only included by common request from our users. It is your responsibility to understand the implications of giving up your rights to work created for a client which, by default, would normally be retained by the developer. We recommend that you compare this variation with the standard version above and consult your own attorney if you have questions.
What Our Clients SayPhotographers Contract Pack offers me exactly what I need. From contracts to model releases the kit offers everything I need to make it through my day to day jobs."
Sport and Sound Productions
1. Get IT/Software/Hardware Contract Pack or the single template that includes this business contract document.
We include this contract in editable Word format that can be customized using your office software.
2. Download and install after ordering.
Once you have ordered and downloaded your template or pack, you will have all the content you need to get started.
3. Customize the contract template with your information.
You can customize the contract document as much as you need. If you get a Contract Pack or Professional Bundle, you can also use the included Wizard software to automate name/address data merging.
Use cases for this template
Elena's startup tames scope and speed at Nimbus Freight
The Challenge
Elena Park, CTO of Nimbus Freight, hired BrightForge Studios to build a logistics portal with carrier APIs under a 10-week investor deadline, but shifting requirements and unclear content ownership threatened delays, scope creep, and budget friction.
The Solution
They used Proposal Kit's web development agreement template to lock in approval windows, defined revisions, ownership and work-for-hire terms, payment milestones, and a fair termination and warranty structure; separately, Proposal Kit's AI Writer generated supporting documents like a Software Requirements Specification, a test plan, and a risk brief, while automated line-item quoting produced option sets for API integrations and data migration without touching the contract content.
The Implementation
Through document assembly, they customized clauses for content delays and portfolio credits, then attached the SRS and test plan created with AI Writer as project exhibits, and presented a tiered estimate using line-item quoting that let the board choose between basic, enhanced, or premium integration bundles, with the Contract Change Form ready for any later scope shifts.
The Outcome
Sign-offs tied to acceptance criteria, released invoices on schedule, the team delivered the MVP on time, change requests were processed cleanly, and predictable cash flow plus a concise warranty window reduced disputes while preserving developer recognition and ensuring Nimbus retained the rights it needed.
Marcus rallies a nonprofit launch at GreenSprout Alliance
The Challenge
Program Director Marcus Bell needed a donation-ready site before a grant deadline, but volunteer-driven content, privacy sensitivities, and a large board made approvals slow and risked missed funding.
The Solution
The freelancer, Tara Quinn, assembled a Proposal Kit contract with confidentiality provisions, payment methods and late-fee terms, defined approval windows, and clear revision limits; then she used AI Writer to create a stakeholder communication plan, accessibility testing checklist, and a content calendar, and relied on line-item quoting to price phased features like donations, multilingual pages, and impact analytics as separate options beyond the core agreement.
The Implementation
Using Proposal Kit's template library, Tara aligned deliverables with acceptance criteria, attached the AI Writer-generated plans as supporting appendices, scheduled board review windows, and kept scope disciplined with the Contract Change Form when the board requested event ticketing midstream, while payment milestones matched each approved deliverable.
The Outcome
GreenSprout launched on time, unlocked grant funds, volunteers met content deadlines due to clear windows and a calendar, the phased budget stayed transparent, and the nonprofit received a concise handoff package that made post-launch operations straightforward.
Diego scales online ordering for Harbor Spoon Hospitality
The Challenge
IT Manager Diego Morales had to roll out a multi-location website with online ordering, delivery integrations, and brand-consistent menus across 12 restaurants, all while securing ownership of photography and avoiding runaway scope.
The Solution
Pixel Harbor used Proposal Kit's contract template to define ownership and work-for-hire, late payments, content delay protections, warranties, and termination terms; for support, AI Writer produced training guides, a deployment checklist, and an operations playbook, and automated line-item quoting presented optional add-ons like loyalty, curbside pickup, and localized menus without altering the base contract.
The Implementation
They assembled the agreement with acceptance criteria for each location, attached the AI Writer-created guides to standardize rollouts, enforced content freeze periods before launch, and used the Contract Change Form to incorporate a loyalty module mid-project with clear pricing and timeline adjustments.
The Outcome
The chain launched in waves with minimal downtime, locations adopted consistent processes, billing matched milestone approvals, support tickets dropped due to better training, and Harbor Spoon retained full rights to its brand assets while the agency secured a negotiated portfolio credit.
Abstract
A website development agreement gives businesses and developers a clear roadmap before any coding begins. It defines scope, deliverables, schedule, and compensation, and it aligns expectations so the project stays on time and on budget. This client-centered approach is activated at project kickoff, converting verbal understandings into written terms that guide the entire engagement.
The contract outlines practical controls for pace and quality. Approval windows set fixed periods for reviewing design mockups and other milestones, keeping feedback timely and preventing stalled projects. Defined rounds of revisions establish what is included and what triggers additional fees, encouraging consolidated, actionable feedback.
Content delivery clauses address client delays with dormant or reactivation fees, protecting schedules and cash flow. When needs change, a formal change order process documents scope adjustments and pricing, minimizing disputes.
Clear payment methods and late payment policies promote predictable billing and discourage overdue accounts. Privacy and confidentiality provisions, including NDAs, protect proprietary business data, source code, and creative assets shared during development. Ownership and work-for-hire language clarifies who holds intellectual property rights to the site, code, images, and custom components, while allowing the developer reasonable portfolio rights or credits when negotiated.
A targeted warranty period covers defects tied to the original build and excludes issues caused by third-party changes, setting a fair and workable standard for post-launch support. Termination terms explain notice, compensation for work performed, and remedies for breach, so both parties have a structured exit if needed.
Organizations that benefit include startups seeking full ownership of their platform, e-commerce businesses with custom features, nonprofits modernizing their sites, healthcare and education teams safeguarding sensitive information, real estate and restaurant firms enhancing listings and ordering systems, and agencies or freelancers managing multiple clients with consistent terms.
Proposal Kit supports this process with document assembly and an extensive template library, making it easier to produce consistent web development contracts, change forms, specifications, and plans. Its automated line-item quoting and AI Writer help build supporting documents and tailor agreements to each project, reducing writing time while improving clarity and ease of use.
To strengthen the business case, consider how this agreement functions as project governance. It sets acceptance criteria for each milestone, aligns stakeholders on who approves what, and defines a communication cadence so decisions don't drift. A clear deliverables inventory paired with a scope and change process protects the budget and timeline, while content dependencies and client tasks make responsibilities explicit.
Many teams also add practical standards such as accessibility expectations, browser/device support, and a basic testing path from internal QA to client user acceptance, plus a defined handoff that covers credentials, documentation, and training. Addressing third-party licenses, open-source components, and platform constraints up front helps avoid costly surprises later. For organizations planning post-launch operations, service levels for minor fixes, scheduled maintenance, and warranty boundaries give predictable support without blurring into unlimited work.
Proposal Kit can streamline these controls for busy teams. Its template library includes ready-made language for approvals, revisions, ownership, warranties, confidentiality, payments, and termination, which you can adapt to your model, whether you are a startup seeking full ownership, an agency delivering repeatable packages, or an enterprise coordinating multiple vendors. Document assembly and automated line-item quoting help you produce consistent statements of work and pricing options fast, while the AI Writer can generate supporting documents like specs or change forms that stay aligned with the contract. The result is a clearer pathway from kickoff to launch, fewer disputes, and easier onboarding of stakeholders who need to understand the project's rules at a glance.
Expanding the agreement further, define deliverable acceptance tied to payment milestones so sign-offs release invoices and keep cash flow predictable. Clarify technical environments and responsibilities: who procures hosting, domains, SSL, analytics, and third-party integrations; what deliverables ship for staging and production; and how backups, version control, and deployment handoffs work. Spell out data migration assumptions, including data formats, cleansing duties, and limits on imported legacy content.
Add content freeze periods ahead of launch to stabilize QA, plus rollback plans if a release must be reversed. Address brand standards, accessibility expectations, and basic browser/device support so teams test against the same targets. Include a media rights inventory for images, fonts, and libraries, covering open-source licenses and any attribution requirements. Provide a short knowledge-transfer package at launch, credentials, admin guides, and a change log, so the client can operate the site safely. For operations, define a light post-launch stabilization window, then offer optional maintenance via retainer or hourly with a simple request queue and priority scheme. Include an orderly dispute-resolution path (notice, cure period, and optional mediation) to resolve issues without derailing the project.
Proposal Kit helps teams assemble these controls consistently. Its templates and data merging speed creation of statements of work, acceptance criteria, warranties, termination terms, confidentiality, and ownership language, while the Software Requirements Specifications and Software Development Plan templates align scope with build and test activities. The Contract Change Form formalizes scope updates, and the Project Copyright Transfer Contract supports client-ownership objectives. Automated line-item quoting and the AI Writer make it easier to package options such as migrations, training, or maintenance into clear, comparable offers, helping busy organizations move from kickoff to launch with fewer surprises.
How to write my Web Development Contract (Client Centered) document - The Narrative
Writing Your Website Development Agreement Using Proposal Kit
A website development agreement is critical for any business contracting website development. This contract outlines the scope and expectations of a web development project and safeguards the interests of both the developer and the client. Given the complexity of such agreements, many find themselves at a loss on where to start. This is where Proposal Kit steps in, offering a comprehensive solution with its template and software package tailored for creating custom web development contracts.
What is a Web Development Contract?
A web development contract is a legally binding agreement between a client and a developer. It outlines the work to be done, the timeframe, the compensation, and each party's rights and responsibilities. It serves as a roadmap for the project, ensuring both parties are aligned on the outcome.
At What Stage Is the Website Development Contract Used?
The website development contract is in effect at the beginning of the project, once both parties have agreed on the basic terms, but before any development work starts. It solidifies the verbal agreements into written form, providing a reference point for the project's duration.
How do you write a web development contract quickly and at a low cost?
The best way to draft a web development contract without spending too much time or money is by starting with a template from the Proposal Kit. This tool provides a client-centered base document and includes data merging capabilities for easy customization for multiple clients. The software ensures that you cover all necessary legal bases without starting from scratch or hiring expensive legal help.
When is This Type of Contract Used?
This client-focused web development contract template is versatile and suitable for various situations where clients desire more ownership rights. Examples include:
- Startups looking to own their developed website fully.
- Established businesses revamping their online presence.
- E-commerce sites needing unique web functionalities.
- Non-profits seeking to update their web interface.
- Educational institutions launching online learning platforms.
- Healthcare providers digitizing patient information.
- Real estate agencies wanting to showcase listings.
- Restaurants aiming to implement online ordering systems.
- Event organizers looking to create a web presence.
- Freelancers or agencies offering web development services.
Are You in Need of This Kind of Protection?
If you need a website development agreement that tilts more towards granting the client substantial ownership rights, then it's time to consider Proposal Kit. This software addresses the common concerns around copyright ownership and customization, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to secure their digital assets fully.
Approval Windows
Approval windows are crucial time frames set within the project timeline for clients to review and approve various stages of the development process, especially design mockups. Implementing these windows effectively streamlines the development workflow by setting clear deadlines for feedback. This mechanism aids in avoiding the common pitfall of projects being held up due to delayed approvals. For example, setting a one- or two-week window for design approval signals to the client the importance of timely feedback and sets the expectation that the project will move forward once the window closes. It's a practice that encourages efficiency and fosters a mutual understanding of the project's pace, significantly reducing the risk of unnecessary delays and ensuring that project milestones are met according to the agreed-upon schedule.
Handling Delays in Content Delivery
Delays in content delivery from the client's side can significantly impede the progress of a web development project. To mitigate this, incorporating clauses in the contract that specifically address such delays can be a proactive approach. These clauses may include stipulations for additional fees if a project goes dormant due to the client's need for timely content provision. This incentivizes the client to deliver the required materials on time and protects the developer from the financial and scheduling disruptions caused by such delays. For instance, a clause might specify that if the client fails to provide necessary content within a specified period, pausing the project, a reactivation fee will be applied to resume work. This approach encourages clients to prioritize the provision of content and supports a more disciplined project timeline.
Revisions and Feedback
Managing the scope of revisions and feedback is integral to maintaining the organization and smooth progression of a web development project. Clear communication from the outset about the number of revisions included within the project scope helps set realistic expectations and prevent the project from becoming bogged down in endless cycles of changes. A structured feedback and revision process, including specified milestones for presenting work for review and clear timelines for providing feedback, ensures that both the client and the development team understand their responsibilities. For example, a contract might state that the project includes two rounds of revisions, with any additional changes beyond this scope incurring extra charges. This clause encourages clients to consolidate their feedback and make comprehensive requests, streamlining the revision process and maintaining project momentum. A structured approach to revisions and feedback is essential for effective project management, ensuring that projects remain on track and within budget.
Project Termination
Project termination clauses serve as a safety net for both the client and the service provider, ensuring that if a project must end prematurely, both parties are treated fairly. Including compensation for hours worked up to termination protects the service provider from losing out on earned income and compensates them for the time and resources already invested. For the client, it ensures that they only pay for work done rather than being on the hook for an entire project that wasn't completed. Furthermore, detailing how breaches of contract are handled offers a clear pathway for resolution should disagreements arise about the terms of termination. This might include a notice period for termination, a mediation process for disputes, and specific scenarios under which a party can terminate the contract, such as breach of terms, non-payment, or significant changes in project scope. By clearly defining these terms, both parties can agree with a mutual understanding of their rights and obligations should the project need to be terminated.
Payment Methods and Late Payment Policies
Specifying accepted payment methods within a web development contract eliminates confusion and facilitates smoother transactions. Clear communication ensures that the client knows how to fulfill their financial obligations, Whether through bank transfers, online payment platforms, or any other agreed-upon method. Additionally, delineating late payment policies, including any interest on overdue amounts or specific late fees, underscores the importance of timely payments. For freelance contractors, who often rely on each payment for their livelihood, such policies help maintain a professional relationship and ensure a predictable cash flow. This clarity also benefits the client, offering them a comprehensive understanding of the payment expectations and any penalties associated with late payments, encouraging prompt payment practices, and helping avoid potential disputes.
Privacy and Confidentiality
Incorporating confidentiality clauses or nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) into a web development contract is pivotal for protecting sensitive information. For businesses, this means safeguarding proprietary data, trade secrets, or unreleased content that could be disclosed during the project. For web designers or service providers, it ensures that their methods, tools, or any proprietary processes used in project development are also protected. An effective NDA clearly outlines what constitutes confidential information, how it can be used, and the duration of its confidentiality. It also specifies the consequences of breaching these terms. This dual protection fosters trust between the parties, enabling open collaboration while securing peace of mind that their respective intellectual property and sensitive information will not be improperly disclosed or used.
Ownership and Work for Hire
Clarifying ownership and work-for-hire terms in a web development contract is pivotal for delineating the rights associated with the final product and any pre-existing or developed elements. Ownership determination is not just about the end product but involves detailed discussions and agreements on the rights to specific design elements, code snippets, and creative content. For instance, while the client typically gains comprehensive website ownership upon completion, the contract must specify if and how the developer retains rights to specific components, such as proprietary software, design patterns, or specific coding frameworks they've created.
Negotiations also extend to the developer securing the rights to use specific design elements for their portfolio or promotional purposes. This balance ensures that while clients secure the ownership necessary to operate and modify their website freely, developers can leverage their work for future business opportunities, showcasing their skills and attracting new clients. Including a clause for "designed by" credits or the ability to showcase the project in the developer's portfolio can be part of this negotiation, providing recognition and promotional value to the developer while respecting the client's primary ownership rights.
Warranties
Warranties within a web development contract serve as a promise from the developer to uphold a certain level of quality and functionality in the delivered website. These assurances significantly bolster trust between the client and the developer. Typically, a warranty clause might cover correcting defects or malfunctions arising within a specified timeframe post-delivery at no additional cost to the client. This period allows clients to use the website and ensure all functionalities work as intended under real-world conditions.
Incorporating warranties underscores the developer's confidence in their work quality and provides peace of mind to the client, who knows that any unforeseen issues will be promptly addressed. However, it's also important for such clauses to clearly define the scope of the warranty, distinguishing between issues arising from the original development work and those resulting from external factors or post-delivery modifications made by the client or third parties. This clarity helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures a fair and transparent process for handling any issues that may arise.
Success Stories
Jasmine's Boutique Adventure
Jasmine's journey into the online world began with a vision to extend her boutique's unique offerings to a broader audience. She understood the value of her brand and was keen on protecting the intellectual property associated with her boutique. Her main concern was ensuring that the charm and uniqueness of her boutique would be accurately reflected and protected online. After discovering the Proposal Kit, Jasmine could easily navigate the intricacies of web development agreements. The software guided her through each step, ensuring that every clause she needed for protection and full ownership was included. Proposal Kit's Project Copyright Transfer Contract was a key component, providing a clear framework that assured her of retaining rights to all custom designs, content, and images developed for her site. This wasn't just about launching an online store for Jasmine; it was about extending her boutique's identity into the digital realm while safeguarding her creative rights. The process with Proposal Kit was so streamlined and reassuring that Jasmine felt empowered, knowing she had a solid legal foundation for her boutique's online expansion.
Alex's Corporate Rush
In the fast-paced marketing world, Alex faced the challenge of drafting a comprehensive web development agreement under a tight deadline. His firm had just landed a significant client eager to revamp its online presence, and Alex was responsible for ensuring the legal documentation was in order. With its user-friendly templates and data merging capabilities, Alex could quickly assemble a contract that met the client's requirements and included provisions for copyright ownership that were favorable to the client. The Contract Change Form, in particular, proved invaluable when the client requested last-minute adjustments to the project scope. This flexibility allowed Alex to integrate the changes seamlessly without delaying the project. Alex met his boss's deadline thanks to the Proposal Kit and earned a commendation for his efficiency and thoroughness. This project showed how Proposal Kit can turn a potential corporate rush into a showcase of professionalism and precision.
Casey's Tech Startup Needs
For Casey and his co-founder, launching their tech startup was about more than just bringing a new product to market; it was about innovation and ownership. They were venturing into a competitive landscape and needed a web development contract to secure their intellectual property rights while allowing for the flexibility required by a tech company. Proposal Kit proved the perfect solution, offering a balance of comprehensiveness and adaptability. Using templates such as the Software Requirements Specifications and the Software Development Plan, Casey could draft an agreement that protected their software, outlined detailed project specifications, and set a clear development plan. This approach ensured that all aspects of the development process were covered, from initial concept to final testing, without sacrificing their rights to the software developed. Proposal Kit facilitated a smoother negotiation process with their developers and instilled confidence in Casey and his team that their startup's intellectual property was securely protected. This level of protection and clarity was instrumental in allowing Casey's startup to focus on innovation and growth, knowing their legal bases were covered.
Conclusion
Proposal Kit can transform the daunting task of drafting web development contracts into a manageable and successful endeavor. Whether protecting a company's unique online identity, meeting tight corporate deadlines, or securing a tech startup's innovations, Proposal Kit provides the tools and templates to achieve a comprehensive and protective agreement tailored to each project's unique needs.
While Proposal Kit's contract templates offer a solid foundation for drafting web development agreements, these documents are for informational purposes only. Always have any legal documents reviewed by a qualified attorney to ensure they meet your specific needs and comply with local laws.
20% Off Discount
Add To Cart This Word Template Only
Add To Cart IT/Software/Hardware Contract Pack
Add To Cart Proposal Kit Professional Bundle
4.7 stars, based on 849 reviewsAlternate Documents
Related Documents
- Exhibit A (Payment Terms)
- Exhibit B (Specifications)
- Exhibit C (Developer Materials)
- Exhibit E (Additional Services)
- Exhibit F (Project Change Form)
- Contract Milestones Checklist
- Contract Specifications Definitions
- Software Requirements Specifications
- Project Change Request Form (During Maintenance)
- Contract Change Form (During Development)
- Contract Milestone Acceptance Signoff Form
- Project Contract Acceptance Signoff Form
- Project Contract Acceptance Signoff Form (Verbose)
- Software Development Plan
- Software Testing Plan
- Project Copyright Transfer Contract
- Breach of Contract Notification Form
- Contract Dissolution Agreement
- Software Problem Report
- Web Application Support Services Contract
- Interactive Creative Brief Worksheet
- Software and Services Quit Claim
How to Build a Legal Contract with Proposal Kit
This video illustrates how to create a legal contract using the Proposal Pack Wizard software. It also shows how to create a proposal with an invoice and contract at the same time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I customize this contract to fit my business needs?
Customizing this contract involves editing the document to include your business details, terms, and conditions. The templates are designed to be flexible, allowing you to insert your company's name, address, and other relevant information. You can modify clauses to reflect your unique business practices and legal requirements.
Is this contract compliant with laws and regulations?
The legal contract templates are written by legal professionals and designed to comply with current laws and regulations at the time of their writing. However, laws can vary by jurisdiction and change over time, so it's recommended to have your contract reviewed by a local attorney to ensure it meets all legal requirements specific to your region and industry. Templates are licensed as self-help information and not as legal advice.
Can I use the same contract for different clients or projects?
You can use the same contract for different clients or projects. The templates are versatile and easily adapted for various scenarios. You will need to update specific details such as client names, project descriptions, and any unique terms for each new agreement to ensure that each contract accurately reflects the particulars of the individual client or project.
What should I do if I encounter a clause or term I don't understand?
If you encounter a clause or term in the contract that you need help understanding, you can refer to guidance notes explaining each section's purpose and use. For more complex or unclear terms, it's advisable to consult with a legal professional who can explain the clause and help you determine if any modifications are necessary to suit your specific needs.
How do I ensure that the contract is legally binding and enforceable?
To ensure that the contract is legally binding and enforceable, follow these steps:
- Complete all relevant sections: Make sure all blanks are filled in with accurate information.
- Include all necessary terms and conditions: Ensure that all essential elements, such as payment terms, deliverables, timelines, and responsibilities, are clearly defined.
- Signatures: Both parties must sign the contract, and it is often recommended that the contract be witnessed or notarized, depending on the legal requirements in your jurisdiction.
- Consult a legal professional: Before finalizing the contract, have it reviewed by an attorney to ensure it complies with applicable laws and protects your interests.
Ian Lauder has been helping businesses write their proposals and contracts for two decades. Ian is the owner and founder of Proposal Kit, one of the original sources of business proposal and contract software products started in 1997.By Ian Lauder
Published by Proposal Kit, Inc.Disclaimers
Proposal Kit, Inc. makes no warranty and accepts no responsibility for the suitability of any materials to the licensee's business. Proposal Kit, Inc. assumes no responsibility or liability for errors or inaccuracies. Licensee accepts all responsibility for the results obtained. The information included is not legal advice. Names in use cases have been fictionalized. Your use of the contract template and any purchased packages constitutes acceptance and understanding of these disclaimers and terms and conditions.
Facebook
YouTube
Bluesky
Search Site