Contracting with WorldPartner

Contracting may seem like a small step in terms of setting up the ODC, but it is nonetheless vital that on the onset, both parties agree on as many aspects of the cooperation as possible, so that the client knows exactly what to expect. After all, the contract set up with WorldPartner dictates the kind of support it provides as well as the contents of the contracts with the members of the client’s ODC team.

Reason behind the contract’s importance

Setting up the contract is an important step. Nonetheless, the contract is not set in stone. WorldPartner recognizes the need for amicable agreements and changes in the contract due to work progress and the passage of time. Solving issues as they arise is a priority; thus, WorldPartner always tries to find solutions that respond to the client’s needs and requirements -- the utmost goal is to ensure the client’s success. Why is the contract important if updates and changes will be done anyway? The contract is more than just an agreement on terms, it is an indicator of responsibilities – who takes care of what aspect of the cooperation. Rest assured, WorldPartner can be counted on to do its best to make the venture succeed.

Elements of a contract

Some of the main contract elements to agree on include:

• Initial manpower requirements;
• WorldPartner’s responsibilities with regard to staff management (attendance tracking, time registration, satisfaction surveys, payroll, benefits, etc.);
• WorldPartner’s responsibilities regarding project management (see Phase Four, for more information);
• Billing and payment terms;
• Employee contract details (probationary periods, sick and vacation leaves, meeting hours, termination period, overtime, etc.);
• Training responsibilities;
• Facilities and utilities;
• Hardware and software;
• System administration support;
• Intellectual property rights and non-disclosure agreement on proprietary information, and
• Liabilities.