>>>I would add don't take fixed price work. I've done it a few times and its consistently worked out badly.
>>>
>>>I also work for time and materials only. But I do give my clients a reasonale idea for how long things will take so they can make an informed decision about the features that they want.
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>>With government contracts, everything has to be laid out in features, time, documentation, etc. It is always 'fixed price' work. Probably why the govt has so many problems with their contracted work. I've witnessed numerous 'low bid' wins which didn't produce or the product was unacceptable when 'completed.'
>
>It is also representative of the reasons independent consultants should be very selective about the type of client they are looking for. As a single consultant shop you don't need Government or Fortune 500 contracts - nor do you really want them. The money, on-going relationships, future referrals and pleasant working environment are to be found in the smaller companies where you can deal directly with principals and develop personal relationships that give you stability and build trust. My .02 but I've been doing this for 25 years now, have never had a 'job' and do not live in a van down by the river on government cheese. ;-)

That's kind of my thoughts also. I enjoy small business and would enjoy helping them grow and prosper.