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in reply to Appraising your work: what's it worth?
BMaximus, you will have many varied answers here, so pick and choose to your needs. If someone asked me, "How much is your code worth to you?" Some days I would answer "Millions!" and other days I would answer "Just take it." Obviously you need something in between.
I work for a university, and I can tell you that in our IT department we spend some incredible money on software packages that we unwrap, and they pay consultants to come and fix the problems. My point is that the idea is what was sold to our administration... not necessarily the product. It was also the vendor's idea compared to their competitor's idea of how the product should work. So really it's all about your 'package presentation' to your potential customers.
You didn't say what 'concept' you are working on (BTW: smart move on your part!), so I don't think that I can give you numbers that will mean much since I don't know that product's market. I suggest that you do a bit of research. If you know what similar products are charging, then provide a better product for the same price (to get going.) If you are the only product in the block, then you'll have to answer some questions.
You questions are going to be:
- Who would I sell this to?
- What are they buying now, and for about how much?
- Tally up all of your hours, and ask yourself, "How much is this worth to me?"
I know you asked that question of the Monks, but really think what would you be comfortable with.
Now for a more specific answer. I do not write Perl on the side (yet.) However, when I charge people/companies for building web sites (outside of work), I usually charge differently depending upon who it is. For example my minimum rate is $30/hr, and in the same breath I can say that I've charged $150/hr for a job that was very similar. I knew that I could get away with it since the company had just spent about $200/hr on a person who didn't do what they asked. I know it doesn't seem fair, and my examples won't match your question exactly, but hopefully I've givin you something to work with.
If you do find a good 'formula' please post it. I know that many people have the same problem. Good luck in your freelance work!
- Mission
"Heck I don't know how to do it either, but do you think that's going to stop me?!!"
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