Software development contract

About this contract to have software written

This is a Contract to have software written for use in any business. This is a straight forward contract for every day work. It is intended to make sure you, the client, get what you have paid for. It does not include a specification of work. That is assumed to be set out in detail in a schedule.

The work you want could be to write or edit your website, or make up a software system from your old spreadsheet system, or give you a tailor made database or information system.

The person you use is an individual who is an expert (you hope!) in his field. He is self employed.

Because the work you want done is intellectual property it is subject to law that does not apply if you want your car serviced or your accounts drawn. We cover all the relevant matters for you.

Your contractor will work on or off your premises. He may use staff besides himself.

You may want to use the contractor more than once (this is an “umbrella” agreement).

Your contractor may not be in your country.

We have assumed you are in business through a company but the contract can be easily edited if you are an individual or partnership.

Alternatives to this contract to have software written

A more comprehensive version, suitable for you to work with a corporate IT consultant is at IT consultant contract: client's version.

A very tough contract for a large project is at Website design and write agreement: client's version; with draft specification. This is easily adaptable to other software work.

An agreement requiring very high level intellectual property protection is at High level software security agreement.

Net Lawman offers around 20 licence agreements and assignments relating to intellectual property in addition to those in website terms and conditions. You can find the full selection at:

• Basic contracts for creative work
• High level IP licence and sale agreements
• Merchandising agreements
• Assignment, sale and transfer
• IP licences by creator or owner
• Software and other development contracts

Contents of this contract to have software written

Here is a list of the major subjects covered in this agreement:

• Definitions and interpretation
• Warranties
• Contract work
• New intellectual property
• Payment
• Security provisions
• Use of sub-contractors
• Confidential information
• Indemnities by contractors
• Insurance
• Termination provisions
• Other matters relating to enforcement and other legal issues

Over 940 words of helpful drafting notes.