A detailed scope of work needs to be cleared with the Scientific Web Applications group and Linda Perry-Lube, even if all of the work is going to be done by the contractor.

Enumerate the desired features of the application in as much detail as possible. Give examples. Provide a roadmap, detailing the versions or stages of the project.

Timeframe: Are there reporting deadlines? Can the project roadmap satisfy these deadlines?

Responsibilities: There needs to be a detailed list of all of the parties involved in the project (the contractor, the departmental client, and the people in the Scientific Web Applications group). There must be a contact chain, detailing who contacts whom for technical inquiries, quality-assurance testing, and so on.

Before work begins on the project, we will produce a written document (an email will suffice) that notes our understandings of the topics enumerated above.