HIT™ Freelance FAQ Page

Design | PHP Test | PHP | Writing | Compensation | Contract | Communications | Scheduling

Design Questions

I noticed one of the design requirements is being W3C compliant. Can you elaborate?
You have 30 days from the date you are contracted with HIT to become W3C transitional compliant (XHTML 1.0 Transitional). We do not provide training for W3C compliancy. Helpful resources on what being W3C compliant requires are available at www.w3schools.com and the w3c.org website.

How long do I have to complete a project?
You will have 7 to 10 business days to complete a project. This includes the amount of time it takes to submit your site for project manager review and to get the project approved by the customer. If you complete a project before the deadline, you’ll qualify for an additional bonus. Completion bonuses are dependant on the size and complexity of the site.

What is the general process accounts go through?
The process begins when a customer purchases a website design and hosting package. Once we have acquired the necessary content from the client (including all text and images) a project is created in The Center. Once a designer completes the website design the account is sent to a programmer, if needed. Once all custom programming has been integrated into the site design, the completed site is ready to go live.

Am I responsible for post-deployment support (after the site is live)?
No. We have an updates team as well as technical support that assist with a site after it has gone live. Your assignment is complete once you have received approval from the client and have uploaded the necessary files to our content management system.

However, you do have the opportunity to work on any update requests the customer submits once the site is live, and will be notified. You will be compensated for fulfilling update requests independent of the original design work.

May I use any of the projects I complete for HIT in my personal portfolio?
No. However, you may state that you worked for Heritage Internet Technologies and direct any inquiries to our portfolio.

Does HIT provide the software I’ll need?
HIT provides the software you’ll need to interact with our databases. However, we will not provide you with Photoshop, Flash, or any other software you may need to design sites for us. As a 1099 contractor, it is your responsibility to supply your own computer and software.

Does HIT maintain stock photos I can use in designing a website?
Yes. As a HIT contract designer you will have access to a catalog of clipart to retrieve any images you may need.

How many projects are typically available at any one time to choose from?
The number of projects to select from may vary greatly depending on the number of accounts entering the design stage of HIT’s website creation process. If you find there are not many projects that meet the criteria you are looking for, just wait a few days and you should find the type of project you’re looking for.

Alternately, you may contact your project manager, since we typically will have some projects
that need to be reassigned to a new designer.

How do I get approved for another type of design project (flash, print) once I have been approved for web page design?
Being approved for additional skill sets usually requires you completing a test and submitting additional design samples. Contact your project manager for specific details.

What is the average size of a website (number of pages)?
Each project varies based on the client’s individual needs but the typical site ranges from three to six pages. Some projects will consist of just one page while some extremely complex projects may be 25 pages or more.

How long does it take to complete a flash project?
If you qualify for the flash skill set you may work on flash projects. Flash projects can vary greatly in scope and complexity. Flash banners are one of most popular flash products, and they may be completed in as little as 30 minutes. Another popular flash product, Flash Introductions, are often finished in approximately one hour.

Am I required to know any programming?
Contract designers are required to know enough basic programming to create page navigation and contact forms. HIT has created webinars and tutorials to assist you if you are unfamiliar or uncomfortable with this. Any programming knowledge you gain will ultimately be beneficial to you.

Do you provide any guidance on how to get started designing sites?
No. We’ve put together some instructional webinars and tutorials to assist you in understanding our system and how to make effective designs within our process, but we contract you with the understanding that you are a professional and already possess the skills needed to create professional sites.

How do I know what to ask during the design interview with the client?
HIT has put together some webinars and tutorials to teach contract designers how to conduct an effective design interview. Our goal is to minimize the time you spend on the phone so you can focus on designing.

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PHP Test Questions

I’m required to take a PHP test as part of the contractor application. Do you have a test server I can access and use to test my results?
No. You will need to install a server (if you don’t have one) on your local machine to test the results. A server that tends to work well is XAMP (pronounced zamp). HIT can offer no support for XAMP or any other server you may use.

What is the PHP test like?
HIT will require you to create a database that will accept certain information as well a program to extract that data. More specific instructions are included with the actual test.

Will I have access to my test results? What are you looking for in the PHP test?
Unfortunately, we are unable to publish test results or provide hints and tips on what we are looking for. Please read the test directions and do the best you can. Your submitted test will be reviewed and you will be notified regarding your results.

Why was my test not approved? What did I get wrong on the test?
Because of the large number or tests HIT receives each day, we are unable to provide specific clarification as to why a certain applicant was rejected. You will fail the test only if your designed database does not meet the criteria established in the test instructions to our satisfaction.

For my PHP test results, do you want them included in the same file or separate files?
There is no preference. Just make sure you include the code for your test results.

Can I use Photoshop or Dreamweaver to complete the PHP test?
Yes, you may use either program. Remember that Photoshop does not do code, but Dreamweaver does.

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PHP Questions

Am I required to use a certain PHP version?
You must program in either PHP 4 or 5.

What environment do you use for programming?
HIT programs in a LAMP environment (Linux, Apache, MySQL, PHP)

As a PHP contractor will I have access to Telmet/SSH?
Outsource contractors do not have access to these programs, although our in-house programmers do.

What method do you use for a development cycle?
The method we employ most closely resembles “waterfall”.

Do you have any project examples I can look at?
www.competecl.com

Am I required to use object-oriented features of PHP version 4 or 5?
Yes, we require either the use of object-oriented features, PHPCake, or Code Igniter.

What requirements documents are provided with each project?
When you first select a project you will only see the type of project and the commission you will earn upon completion. Your project manager will provide you with all of the specific project requirements. You should go through each requirement with the client during your introductory call.

As a PHP contractor, am I responsible for project management (timelines, negotiations, etc.)?
You will work with a project manager who is responsible for setting a project deadline. You may develop a timeline within that frame. Also, if you or the client feels that changes need to be made to the project you may contact a database analyst to discuss any modifications. Any new project quotes must be written by our database analysis team.

What if the project ends up being more complex than originally estimated?
The customer will be required to pay for the additional cost. If the customer wants to make minor changes (under $500.00) our outsource contractors are authorized to quote them on the additional cost.

Is the programmer responsible for the graphic design or are template being provided?
HIT does not use design templates but you will not be responsible for a site’s graphic design. We have a graphic design department that provides that service.

Does this contract work simply involve PHP forms programming? Or am I expected to design and execute databases as well?
The contractor creates a basic user interface. The programmer does not do any design work.

What should I talk about during the programming interview with the client?
You’ll receive a description of functionality and specifications that was approved by the client when they purchased a database. Based on that, you’ll discuss in more detail any areas where you may have questions and make sure the write-up accurately reflects what the client has in mind. HIT has put together some tutorials to assist you.

How long does it take to finish the programming on a project?
Each project varies on time depending on how complex it is. Generally speaking, a $1,000.00 project takes approximately 20 hours to complete and a $5,000.00 project takes approximately 100 hours to complete. But while dollar amounts provide a good estimate of how complex the project is, other factors may affect the overall project length as well.

What kind of projects will I work on?
Since HIT designs custom websites and custom databases there are a wide variety of projects you may work on. Some are simple, drag-and-drop type installations. Others may involve complex, custom payment gateway processing with unique administrator areas.

Is there a standard set or library of code you require programmers to use? Does HIT provide a library of common PHP widget/classes for use?
No. We do have security guidelines that you must follow and implement in your coding, but we do not maintain a library of code or PHP widget/classes.

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Writing Questions

What kinds of writing projects will I be working on?
HIT offers a variety of writing services. The most commonly requested service is website content writing. Additionally, customers frequently request blog articles, newsletters, press releases, product descriptions, and form letters.

I’m completely fluent in [language]. Will I have an opportunity to use that?
If you are able to write with native ability in another language besides English, let your project manager know. From time to time HIT does receive requests for written content in other languages. Popular online languages include Chinese, Spanish, Japanese, French, Portuguese, and German.

What is the average size of a website (number of pages)?
Each project varies, but the typical content writing project ranges from three to six pages.

How do I know what to ask in the content interview?
HIT will provide tutorials, scripts, and other materials that outline the content interview process and what subjects you should address when interviewing a client.

What happens if I miss a deadline but the customer ultimately approves the content?
Design work cannot begin on a site until the written content is finished. For that reason, HIT maintains a strict policy on project deadlines. Our customers expect their site to be completed in a timely fashion and one of our top priorities is meeting that expectation. While we try to be understanding and give you the benefit of the doubt, your contract may be terminated if your projects are repeatedly completed after the project deadline, regardless of whether the customer is ultimately pleased with the result or not.

What if I can’t get in touch with the client for the content interview?
If you have put forth a reasonable effort to contact the client but have been unable to reach them, you may be given a deadline extension. Contact your project manager if you are having difficulties reaching a customer.

How many projects can I work on at a time?
As a new contract writer, you will only be able to select one project as a time. As you prove your ability to complete projects on time and to the customer’s satisfaction, you’ll eventually be allowed to select as many projects as you would like.

Does HIT provide the software I’ll need?
HIT provides the software you’ll need to interact with our databases and upload your completed projects. However, we will not provide you with word processing programs or any other software you may need to design sites for us. As a 1099 contractor, it is your responsibility to supply your own computer and software.

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Compensation Questions

How much do you pay per hour?
HIT does not pay an hourly rate. Depending on your skill set, you will be paid by the page, word count, or other project-specific method.

How do you figure out what the price of a PHP project is?
HIT has a highly skilled staff of in-house database analysts who interview the client to assess their needs for both the front and back-end functionality of the client’s website. You will know before you accept a project how much that project cost.

How much do designers typically make on a given week?
That really depends on you. We have some designers that are just looking to supplement their income by completing a couple projects each week. The invoices for those designers are typically $100.00 to $500.00 a week. Some designers treat this opportunity as a full time job and bring home $1,000.00 to $2,000.00 or more per week. How much you actually make depends on how much work you decide you want to do.

Can you provide a breakdown of how you got those invoice numbers?
Certainly. Typically a designer receives $20.00 per page for a static site with minimal HTML coding and no enhancements (such as flash banners, rollover buttons, site maps, contact forms, background audio, etc.). More complex sites can pay $35.00 or more per page. Most of our experienced outsource designers are able to complete one static page in about 30 minutes. Less experienced designers may spend one to two hours working on a site.

So, let’s do some simple math… a 5 page site paying $20.00 per page + $10.00 bonus for completing a client interview = $150.00. Now divide that by the number of hours you spent working on that project (30 min per page x 5 pages = 2.5 hours of work) and as you can see, you were being paid $60.00 per hour for that site.

In addition, completing projects before the deadline qualifies you for an additional bonus. The deadline bonus usually averages between $30.00 and $40.00 but can be anywhere from $20.00 to $150.00. That means if you complete your projects before the deadline, you could end up making $72.00 to $76.00 an hour… just for a simple, static website design!

Remember you can qualify for more compensation for completing enhancements the customer purchases for their site. That’s in addition to the commission you’re paid for selling products and services to the customer.

Hopefully it’s becoming clear that working as a freelance contract designer for HIT can be extremely rewarding. The best part is our customers receive custom designed, professional websites at a fraction of the cost of other design companies.

What is the compensation for branding (logo design) projects?
A designer that completes a branding project typically receives $75.00 for each completed logo.

What is compensation for a flash designer?
Most flash programming is sold as a custom quote based on what the client’s needs are. Flash designers are paid 20% of the total project price paid by our client. However, there is a set rate for flash banners ($60.00) and flash introductions ($120.00).

When do I submit an invoice?
More training on this is provided if/when you are contracted. You will submit only one invoice per week. Invoices are due every Wednesday by 12:00am MST. If you completed no work during that week, there is no need to submit an invoice.

How do I submit an invoice?
We prefer to receive your invoices by e-mail, rather than fax or by another means. With the large number of outsource contractors we work with, we’ve found that processing paperwork is much more efficient when invoices are e-mailed to us.

When will I get paid?
Due to the volume of invoices we receive each week, it usually takes us two weeks to process and mail checks out once you have submitted a properly completed invoice. After that, it is a matter of how long it takes the US Postal Service to deliver your paycheck.

This means that after your first two weeks, if you submit an invoice every week, you should receive a check in the mail every week.

Can I be paid through PayPal or Direct Deposit?
Unfortunately we do not offer this service at this time. All payments to you are made in check form. If you live close to our offices you may request to pick up your check instead of having it mailed to you.

What happens if I miss a deadline but the customer approves the site?
Customer approval is required for you to be paid on a project. If you miss the completion deadline, whether you are granted an extension or not, you will be ineligible to receive a bonus for completing the project on time. You will still receive the project’s base pay and any other bonuses you qualify for.

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Contract Questions

You mentioned I’d be an independent contractor, what does that mean?
1099 refers to the IRS form that an independent contractor uses to state his or her income from a given business for the year. That’s why you’ll often hear independent contractors called 1099 contractors. A 1099 contractor is not an employee of the business with which he or she works. The government considers you a self-employed consultant.

If you earn more than $600.00 in a taxable year HIT will issue you a 1099 form. The biggest item to keep in mind is that, as a 1099 contractor, you are responsible for paying the total amount of your Social Security, Medicare, and other taxes. HIT does not take out any deductions. Additionally, HIT provides no health insurance and retirement benefits and may terminate your contract at will.

Rest assured HIT will only terminate your contract for violating company policies or after long periods of inactivity with no explanation.

Are there are any contracting restrictions?
Unfortunately, at this time we will only work with independent contractors who possess valid U.S. social security numbers. In addition, you must be 18 years of age to work for us.

I live outside the United States but I have a U.S. social security number. Am I still eligible for contractor work?
Yes, you are still eligible for contractor work.

I’m not 18 yet but I’m very tech savvy. Can I work for HIT?
You may be a very qualified designer or programmer, but unfortunately we are unable to contract with you. Contracts signed by minors are not considered legally binding if it becomes necessary to defend ourselves in court.

We can’t have parents or legal guardians sign anything on your behalf because your parents are not the ones working with our clients and performing the work. Also, minors are not a protected class; therefore we are not discriminating against age.

Can you explain the non-compete clause in my contract?
The non-compete clause states that you are not allowed to solicit our clients or employees for your own personal work or work for one of our direct competitors. This is a conflict of interest. Also, during non-HIT related business, if you encounter a client that you did programming or design work for while contracted with HIT you are required to refer them back to HIT for any additional work on their site.

How long will it take for me to be able to start working once I submit all the necessary paperwork?
Once you are contracted it takes an average of one week for you to be able to select projects to work on. We need to create and configure your profile in our internal systems and you are required to view some webinars and tutorials to further explain our business practices before you can accept a project.

Will I receive a copy of all the documents I sign when I’m contracted?
We will provide you with a digital copy of all documents you signed only if you request a copy.

For the W-9 form, what do I need to send in?
You only need to submit the first page, which is the actual form. All subsequent pages are simply instructions on how to properly complete the W-9.

Can a group be contracted with HIT?
Yes, HIT will contract with groups of designers. In such cases, each individual designer must sign all provided contracts and agreements. Each individual will be issued their own personal pipeline of projects. The group may invoice HIT as one individual/company (largely dependant on how the group’s 1099 is set up). However, if any individual of the group violates HIT policies or procedures, the entire group will be terminated.

What forms do I need to complete to become a contract designer for HIT?
There are five forms you are required to complete in order to become a 1099 contractor for HIT.

• Contract Service Provider Agreement
• Confidentiality Agreement
• Non-Disclosure Agreement
• Background Check Consent Form
• W-9 Taxpayer Form

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Communications Questions

Do I need to get a business line or use my own phone to call customers?
No. HIT will recommend the VOIP software you’ll need to connect to our VOIP phone system. You will need to provide your own USB headset. You can purchase a quality, noise-cancelling headset for as little as $20.00. You will not be reimbursed for this cost. In order to maintain quality control, you are required to use our VOIP system every time you contact a customer.

Is there a recommended/required headset type/brand to use VOIP?
HIT does not recommend any particular brand or style of USB headset. We do suggest that you not buy the cheapest headset you can find. Experience has shown they will not work properly. A mid-priced headset should be perfectly adequate. Many headsets in the $20.00-$30.00 range are of acceptable quality.

What is VOIP?
VOIP is a software program that allows you, essentially, make phone calls through your computer. You will tie into our phone system, which automatically records the time and date of each phone call made to/from a client into the client’s account notes. This is essential for maintaining quality control. It also helps protect you in the event there is ever a dispute over whether you contacted a customer. You will need a USB headset to use VOIP.

What operating systems does VOIP support?
VOIP works with virtually every operating system including Linux, Mac operating systems, and most Windows versions.

Can I use a different Internet phone service, such as Skype?
No. You must use HIT’s VOIP for all phone communications with our clients.

What e-mail address should I use for work?
You will be assigned an official HIT e-mail address, which you will be required to use when communicating with our customers.

When am I required to contact the client?
You are required to introduce yourself to the client within 24 hours of selecting their project. As a courtesy, we require that you contact the client at least twice every five days to provide a progress/status report. Make sure you provide accurate notes in the client’s account (in HLM) every time you make contact.

How much documentation do I need to provide?
We do expect a high level of documentation. Every communication between you and the client, including all e-mails and phone calls, should be noted in the client’s account. This may seem burdensome but it is meant to protect you in the event there’s ever a dispute over what was said to a customer or what work has been performed. If you encounter any difficulties providing necessary notes, please contact your project manager right away to resolve the situation.

Do I need to keep a phone log of client contacts during the week?
No. You are only required to record notes in our internal system each time you speak with a client. You are not required to make a set number of calls or speak to a customer for a set length of time.

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Scheduling Questions

What if I can’t work during normal business hours?
For designers, that’s fine. Simply tell the client when you contact them (especially if they ask) that you have been contracted by Heritage Internet Technologies and have been authorized to work outside of normal business hours.

Programmers are expected to have one day per week they will be available for contact during normal business hours.

What do I do if I am going to be out of town, on vacation, or otherwise unavailable?
We certainly understand if you don’t want to work while on vacation. We don’t enjoy working while on vacation either. If you will be gone for more than a couple days, please let your project manager know so that you can either have your projects reassigned and/or complete any projects you are close to completing so that you don’t have work hanging in the balance while you’re gone.

How often am I allowed to take vacations?
As often as you’d like. You are, after all, a contractor, not an employee of HIT. Again, if you have projects that you’re working on, please notify your project manager before you leave town. Usually 30 days of inactivity constitutes termination, so please speak with HIT if your leave will take longer than 30 days. If you do not notify us and we attempt to contact us while you are unavailable, HIT may terminate your contract.

How much work will be assigned to me?
Most of the time you will manage your own workflow by selecting only the projects you want to work on. Sometimes, especially when we have a large number of projects awaiting assignment, you will be contacted and asked to take on additional work.

You have the opportunity to select the number of projects you would like to work on.

New design contractors are able to select up to five projects at a time.

New PHP contractors are able to select one project at a time.

New writing contractors are able to select one project at a time. After you have proven your ability to complete projects on time and to our customer’s satisfaction, you’ll be able to select even more projects at a time.

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