I received a call the other day from a prospective new client.  She went through a pretty standard list of questions for me, and educated me on her organization's specific needs. She mentioned that they were trying out a mystery shopping program, and didn't know how long they could commit for.  She also mentioned that the final questionnaire wasn't yet complete and they would like some help putting together the final version of the secret shop.  Then, she said with some hesitation, so we would like to commit to the shortest term contract you offer, and we'll need your billing rate too. I explained to her that we make the term of our agreement whatever meets their needs.  From zero to 36 months.  It's your choice.  Of course, there are significant pricing considerations for clients who want to commit for a 36 month term versus a "as you go" option. As for the fee to review the shopping observations, form, that's included as part of our service to our clients.  If we are to create the shop from scratch, there would be a fee, of course.  For a few moments that will actually benefit both of us, there's no charge! These are just two of the differences between ServiceQuality.US and The Service Quality Department and our competitors.  Are you getting everything you deserve?