How to write a Graphic Desing Business Contract

By Jacci Howard Bear, About.com

Contracts are standard operating procedure for businesses. Even small desktop publishing businesses and graphic designers just starting out need to know how to write a contract. Your contract is an agreement between you, the designer, and your client to provide design and desktop publishing services. You and the client need to be in agreement as to exactly what specific services you are providing, when you’ll finish the job, how much money is involved, and ownership of the completed work

Here’s How:

1. Start with a sample contract or template.

   You can write a contract on your own pulling elements from some of the samples and templates available online; however, you should have a lawyer look over any contract you plan to use. Use the contract samples to find the exact wording you want to use for the sections and clauses described below as well as a format for names and addresses, date and signature lines, which state laws apply to the contract, and other standard elements.

2. Describe the project.

   A part of the freelance design contract should include a Project Description of what specific services you are providing and the specifications of the final project to be delivered. The details may be included as part of the detailed estimate.

3. Specify date of completion.

   As a minimum the contract should stipulate the estimated Completion Date. You may also include interim production stages. This section would also describe circumstances and liability in the event the schedule must change.

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