1. We meet to go over what you want the web based application to do.  You show Steve your current process and explain what you need changed.  He takes notes and asks questions.

2. Steve writes up a software proposal.  This document includes your requirements, a proposed solution, a flat rate quote to implement the software and a guaranteed hourly rate for any additional work not covered in the proposal.  He'll also link together a few HTML screens so you can try out the new user interface.

3. You make any needed changes to the software proposal and we sign a contract.  In addition to echoing the cost outlined in the proposal, the contract also specifies delivery dates.

4. We develop the application on our server and perform unit and system level testing.  Once we believe we have a bug free application, we'll give you the URL so you can do acceptance testing from your office.

5. For any issues you encounter during testing, we'll either change the code per your request or give you an estimate of the number of hours needed to add the requested functionality.  Most changes like screen layouts, formula revisions or adding a new field to an existing table can be done at no additional cost.  We only charge an hourly rate for new features not covered in our original agreement.

6. When you are ready to go live we deliver you a CD with all your source, data and documentation.  Steve installs your application on a web host of your choice from that CD.

Of course, each client has individual needs and this process can be tailored to meet those requirements.