What is the difference between fixed-price and hourly billing for software?

What does fixed-price software work cover?

Fixed-price work agrees a price for a defined set of deliverables. It helps buyers plan around clear boundaries. Confirm what is included, what counts as completion, and how a scope change will be priced before work begins.

Code and Trust's fixed-price builds are priced from $15,000, with the scope defined for the engagement.

How does hourly work differ?

Hourly work charges for time spent instead of one price for the whole scope. It can fit requests whose extent is not yet clear or individual tasks agreed as they arise. Ask how estimates, time reporting and approval of further work will be handled.

Where do retainers fit?

A retainer is an ongoing arrangement for recurring work, such as maintenance or continued improvements. Agree on priorities and what the arrangement includes. Deliverables, response expectations and billing details belong in the agreement.

Code and Trust's retainers are priced from $1,750/month. Most large builds are fixed-price, with a monthly retainer after launch.

Which model fits the work?

Consider fixed price when the deliverables can be defined, hourly work when the extent of a task is uncertain, and a retainer when there is a recurring need. Compare the written scope, responsibilities, payment terms and process for approving changes before deciding.

Explore our software development services, start a project estimate, or discuss the work with our team.