Step 1: Project Definition by Employer
In this step, the employer defines the project clearly. This stage is crucial because the more detailed and complete the project description is, the more accurate the freelancer’s evaluation and proposal will be.
Starting the Project:
The employer must enter all the details of the project in the project submission form.
The employer should provide a complete description of the project's goals, requirements, deliverables, and any special expectations.
The employer should specify the platforms, tools, or technologies to be used (e.g., "Design a website with Odoo and implement Odoo CRM").
Defining Timeline and Budget:
The employer should define a clear timeline for the project, including deadlines for different phases of the project.
The total project budget should be determined, or at least a budget range should be provided.
Additional Information:
The employer should optionally provide identity information, server access, and licenses required for the project, so that all information is available when the project begins.
It is highly recommended that all identity details, server information, and licenses related to the project be stored securely under the employer's account. This ensures transparency and security during the project.
Final Review:
Once the project is submitted, the employer should review it again to ensure that all details are accurate. This step is essential because incomplete or incorrect information can cause issues later in the project.
Step 2: Freelancer Request & Proposal Agreement
In this step, the freelancer reviews the project and submits a proposal. If they find the project suitable, they submit their request and the proposed price for the work.
Reviewing the Project:
The freelancer reviews the project to assess whether their skills and experience align with the project requirements.
If the freelancer believes they can successfully complete the project, they submit a proposal along with their proposed budget.
Submitting the Proposal and Communication:
The freelancer must enter a proposed amount for the project, which should be fair and in line with the expected work.
The freelancer can also ask specific questions about the project to gain clarity on certain aspects. For example:
"Would you like to use any specific modules in Odoo?"
"Is the data ready for CRM implementation?"
Final Agreement:
Once the freelancer submits the proposal, the employer reviews the proposals and, if they find the right freelancer, they approve the freelancer's request.
After approval, the employer must deposit the agreed amount (usually held in escrow by the platform).
Step 3: Project Execution & Final Payment
Once the freelancer’s proposal is approved and the amount is deposited, the freelancer starts the project and completes it. After completion, the payment is released to the freelancer.
Starting the Project:
After the employer deposits the agreed amount, the freelancer begins work on the project.
Throughout the project, the freelancer should provide regular progress reports and communicate with the employer as necessary.
Employer’s Final Approval:
After the project is completed, the freelancer submits the final work to the employer for review.
If the employer is satisfied with the work, they approve the project and release the final payment to the freelancer.
Preventing Off-Platform Communication and Project Completion:
If at any point, the employer or freelancer decides to continue the project without involving the platform (i.e., directly communicating or bypassing the platform’s mediation), both accounts will be suspended.
This policy is in place to protect both parties' rights and prevent misuse of the platform. If the employer or freelancer chooses to bypass the platform, both parties will suffer losses, and their accounts will be blocked.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
To further clarify the process for users, you can add an FAQ section that answers common questions.
How can I submit my project?
To submit your project, simply go to the "Submit Project" section, fill in all the project details, define the timeline and budget, and submit it for review. Freelancers will then be able to see and submit proposals for your project.
How do I select the right freelancer?
Once you submit the project, freelancers will submit their proposals. You can review these proposals and select the freelancer who best fits your needs, based on their experience, skills, and proposed budget.
When is the payment released to the freelancer?
Once the freelancer completes the project to your satisfaction, you must approve the work and release the payment. If the project is delivered successfully and meets the agreed-upon criteria, the payment will be transferred to the freelancer’s account.
What happens if the employer or freelancer decides to bypass the platform?
If it is discovered that the employer or freelancer decides to work directly outside the platform (without our involvement), both accounts will be suspended. This is because the platform's terms and conditions are being violated. Both parties will incur losses as a result.
How does the payment process work?
4. How does the payment process work?
The payment process is done in escrow. After you approve a freelancer’s proposal, you’ll deposit the agreed amount into the platform's escrow account. The freelancer will begin work, and once you’re satisfied with the project, you’ll release the payment. If for any reason the project isn’t completed as expected, you can open a dispute.
How are milestones structured for large projects?
For larger projects, it’s highly recommended to break down the work into milestones. You and the freelancer can agree on the specific deliverables for each milestone, and payments will be released as milestones are completed. This ensures that both parties are on the same page throughout the project.
How do I communicate with the freelancer during the project?
You can communicate with the freelancer directly via the platform’s message system or schedule calls if necessary. Regular updates are encouraged to ensure the project is progressing according to plan. It’s essential to maintain good communication for the successful completion of the project.
What happens if the freelancer and I decide to communicate or work outside the platform?
If it’s found that either the employer or freelancer decides to bypass the platform, such as working directly or exchanging contact information without using the platform, both accounts will be suspended. This is a breach of our terms and conditions, and any payments made will be forfeited.
Can I request revisions after the project is completed?
Yes, after the freelancer submits the final work, you have the opportunity to request revisions if necessary. Be clear about your revision requests, and the freelancer will make adjustments. If you are still satisfied with the work, you will then release the final payment.
What if I’m not happy with the freelancer’s work?
If you're not satisfied with the work during any phase, you can request revisions or cancel the project. The platform has a dispute resolution process to help both parties come to a mutual agreement. If no agreement can be reached, funds held in escrow can be refunded, depending on the situation.
Can I post a project for an ongoing service (e.g., long-term work)?
Yes, you can post a project for ongoing services or long-term engagements. In this case, the project description should clearly outline the frequency and scope of the work. You can also set up a recurrent contract with the freelancer once both parties agree on the terms.
How do I ensure the freelancer delivers high-quality work?
When posting your project, make sure to clearly communicate your expectations and set realistic deadlines. During the project, request regular updates and ask the freelancer to provide deliverables as agreed. Additionally, ensure the freelancer has a solid portfolio and relevant experience for the task at hand.
What happens if the freelancer is unable to complete the project?
If a freelancer is unable to complete the project due to unforeseen circumstances or lack of performance, they must notify you immediately. You can either agree on a new timeline or request a refund of the deposit in accordance with the platform's dispute resolution process.
What if the project requires access to sensitive data or systems?
If your project involves sensitive data, server access, or third-party integrations, it's crucial to share this information securely through the platform. We recommend sharing only necessary credentials with the freelancer and ensuring that all security protocols are followed. For added security, you may want to limit access to certain areas of your system until the freelancer has proven trustworthy.
Can I hire multiple freelancers for one project?
Yes, you can hire multiple freelancers for a single project if the project requires various skill sets or if you prefer to have a team working on different aspects. Be sure to clarify the roles and responsibilities of each freelancer, along with their individual milestones and payments.
Is the platform responsible for contracts and legal matters?
The platform provides a secure environment for freelancers and employers to connect, but it is not directly responsible for contracts, payment disputes, or legal issues. We recommend having a clear written agreement between both parties outlining the terms and conditions before starting any project.