General Terms and Conditions, frequently referred to as “Boilerplate,” defines how the Client and Consultant will relate to each other in a business relationship without regard to a specific project. The following is a critical “Boilerplate” item that if not clearly and equitably stated will likely result in misunderstandings and confrontational situations:

Change Management – Changes during the design almost always occur.  It becomes imperative that how changes are to be managed be defined in the contract.  Without this provision, the design process will likely be delayed while the parties agree on how to manage the change.  The contract provision should address the form of the notice of a change that will be required and the time allowed for the party identifying the need for a change to notify the other party.