[RE-wrenches] Professional conduct

[William Miller]

Colleagues:

Of course, this dilemma has probably existed since the Romans bid on the 
first chariot.  You need to present a design to the client to prove you 
have a plan in order to sell the job, but you can not prevent the client 
from using your design to shop contractors.  There is not a lot you can do 
about this.  I let these clients go without much regret.  If the client 
does not understand the ethics involved, or is not ethical, I'd just as 
soon not work for them.

It is a fine line on what documentation you present to the client.  We try 
to be generic during bidding and vert specific during contracting.  Once 
the client is ready to sign a contract, we want it made clear exactly where 
the modules will be installed and specify any exclusions.

This discussion got me thinking about the cast iron pipe top-of-pole mount 
problem discussed here recently.  Someone suggested smashing the customer's 
pipe and someone else wanted to tell the customer off.  I don't believe 
either idea is productive or professional.  My approach in similar 
situations is to remain calm, present the dilemma and supporting 
documentation in writing and let the customer decide:  Does he want the job 
done properly with your services or improperly without your services.  I 
have observed a few structural engineers and other professionals that 
exhibit a very professional demeanor and I have used them as role 
models.  These are the men/women that earn good money and are above 
reproach.  This is the reputation I want to cultivate.

Respectfully,

William Miller





> >You guessed
> > it, they showed our detailed proposal to the other firm who then proposed
> > the exact same system we proposed, item for item, except they lowered
> > their price about 1/2%.    Yes, we lost the job.
> >
> > No, its not only not a good idea to give out this cost information, but
> > its also not a good idea to give out a detailed parts list breakout.  If
> > the client wants another bid, then go for it, only let the competition
> > have to go to the same trouble you did to figure out what parts and sizes
> > of equipment will be needed.
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