Change Order

A change order records a change to an existing project agreement. In website development or agency work, that might mean adding a booking integration, translating new pages, expanding the number of design revisions, or changing the delivery deadline. Without a clear process, a small request can turn into a dispute about what the original quote included.

A useful change order identifies the original agreement, what changes, why the change is needed, the additional or reduced cost, and any revised milestone or completion date. The parties should use the approval method established in their contract. An email exchange may be enough under one agreement, while another calls for a signed form; enforceability depends on the contract and governing law.

Change control protects both sides: the client knows what is being purchased, and the service provider can plan resources. It does not justify charging for work that was already promised. Keep approved change orders with the project record rather than relying on informal messages.