GoTripod News / Software

Choosing the right engagement model for your project

Here's something we've learned over 15 years of building software: not every project is the same, and trying to force them all into the same box doesn't work.

Some clients come to us knowing exactly what they need. They've done their homework, mapped out the requirements, and want certainty on cost and timeline. Others arrive with a brilliant idea that's still taking shape, they need room to explore, pivot, and discover what works best.

Both are completely valid.

That's why we offer two distinct ways of working together, each designed to give you exactly what you need.

The Explorer's path: day-rate collaboration

We know roughly where we want to go, but we want to discover the best route together.

Day-rate work is perfect when you need flexibility and the freedom to evolve your thinking as you go. You're not buying a fixed outcome, you're buying access to our expertise, our time, and our partnership.

Think of it like hiring a skilled guide for an expedition. You set the direction, and we help you navigate the terrain, pointing out opportunities and pitfalls along the way. If you spot something interesting off the beaten path, we can explore it together.

This approach shines when:

• You're building something new and need room to experiment
• Requirements are still being refined based on user feedback
• You want to iterate quickly and adjust priorities as you learn
• The project scope may grow or shift based on business needs
• You value ongoing collaboration over rigid specifications

How it works in practice

We work in short, focused cycles. At the start of each cycle, we agree on what we'll tackle. We build it, show you the results, gather your feedback, and then decide together what comes next. It's a conversation, not a conveyor belt.

You stay in control of priorities, and we stay focused on delivering value. If something changes — a competitor launches a new feature, customer feedback reveals a better approach, or your strategy shifts — we adapt with you.

The Architect's path: fixed-price delivery

We know exactly what we need. Give us a price and a date.

Fixed-price projects are built on certainty. You tell us precisely what you need, we agree on the scope in detail, and then we commit to delivering that outcome for an agreed price. No surprises, no ambiguity.

Think of it like commissioning an architect to build to your exact specifications. The blueprints are drawn, the materials are specified, and everyone knows what the finished building will look like before the first brick is laid.

This approach shines when:

• You have clear, well-defined requirements
• Budget certainty is essential for your planning
• You're replacing or upgrading an existing system with known functionality
• Stakeholders need to sign off on costs before work begins
• The project has regulatory or compliance requirements

How it works in practice

Everything starts with a detailed Statement of Work. We invest time upfront to understand exactly what you need, document every requirement, and agree on what's included. And crucially, what isn't. This clarity protects both of us.

Once we shake hands, we take on the delivery risk. If something takes longer than expected, that's on us. You get the outcome you specified, for the price you agreed.

At a glance

Real-world examples

We want to improve our application form, but we're not sure exactly how yet.

The Explorer approach: We'd start by reviewing the current form together, understanding the pain points, and identifying quick wins. Then we'd tackle improvements one at a time, perhaps starting with a single new field and its integration. After each change, we'd review the results together and decide what to improve next. If your thinking evolves along the way, we evolve with you.

We need a new customer portal with these exact features, and we need it by March.

The Architect approach: We'd work with you to document every feature in detail, agree on the scope and exclusions, and provide a fixed price for delivery. You'd know exactly what you're getting, when you're getting it, and how much it will cost, before we write a single line of code.

Choosing the right path

Neither approach is inherently better, they're tools for different jobs. The right choice depends on where you are in your journey and what matters most to you right now.

Sometimes projects even blend both approaches. You might start with day-rate discovery work to figure out exactly what you need, then transition to a fixed-price phase for the build. Or you might have a fixed-price core project with day-rate support for ongoing enhancements.

The important thing is being intentional about which mode you're in. When everyone understands the rules of engagement, projects run smoothly, expectations are met, and great software gets built.

Let's talk

Not sure which approach fits your project? That's a great starting point for a conversation. We've been helping clients navigate these decisions for over 15 years, and we'd love to help you find the right path.

Get in touch - We'd love to hear what you're building.