Serge BelovFrequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about working together. Can't find what you're looking for? Ask directly.
Getting started
How do I know if you're the right fit for my project?
If you need custom software, a prototype, automation, or an AI system — and you want fixed pricing, honest communication, and someone who takes ownership — I'm probably a good fit. If you're not sure, book a discovery call. I'll tell you plainly if I'm not the right person.
Do you work with non-technical clients?
Yes, and often. I'm used to bridging the gap between business problems and technical solutions. You don't need to know what a database is to work with me effectively. You just need to know what problem you're trying to solve.
What's the best way to start?
Use the contact form or email me directly with a brief description of what you need. For custom-scope projects, I'll set up a discovery call. For fixed-price services, you can purchase directly and I'll get started.
Do you take on small projects?
Yes. Process automations start at $800, prototypes at $900, and technical specifications at $500. These are focused, well-scoped engagements — not stripped-down versions of something bigger.
Are you available right now?
Availability varies. Contact me with your timeline and I'll be honest about whether I can start when you need. I maintain a short waitlist and don't overbook.
Pricing & payments
Do you charge by the hour?
No. Everything is fixed-price — either a flat project fee or a monthly subscription. You know the cost before any work starts. This protects you from scope creep and gives you a predictable budget.
Why do custom-scope projects say "starting at"?
Custom software and AI agent projects vary significantly in complexity. The starting price reflects the minimum for a well-scoped, meaningful engagement. The actual quote is agreed in writing after a discovery session — before any work begins.
Do you require a deposit?
Yes — typically 50% upfront and 50% on delivery. For larger projects, milestone-based payments can be arranged. Subscriptions are billed monthly via Stripe.
What payment methods do you accept?
Credit card (via Stripe) and bank transfer. Subscriptions are charged automatically to the card on file each month.
What currency are prices in?
All prices are in Canadian dollars (CAD) unless otherwise stated.
Can I get a quote before committing?
Absolutely. For fixed-price services, pricing is published. For custom-scope work, I provide a written quote after a discovery session — no obligation until you approve the quote.
Process & timelines
What does the process look like from start to finish?
It starts with a discovery session where I map your requirements and constraints. I then write a specification or brief you approve before work begins. Development proceeds with regular check-ins. You review before delivery. Post-launch support is included.
How long do projects typically take?
Prototypes: 3–10 business days. Technical specs: 1–2 weeks. Process automations: 1–2 weeks. Custom software MVPs: 4–8 weeks. AI knowledge agents: 3–6 weeks. Timelines are agreed in writing before work starts.
What if the scope changes mid-project?
Scope changes are handled through a formal change request. If you approve expanding the work, I provide a new fixed price for the additions before proceeding. Nothing gets added to the bill without your written approval.
How much of my time will this require?
For discovery and review phases, expect a few hours of focused input from you. During the build phase, I work independently and only interrupt when I have a genuine blocker. I don't ask questions I can answer myself.
Do you work with existing codebases or teams?
Yes. I can join an existing project, extend a codebase, or work alongside your internal team. I'll review the existing code before scoping to give you an accurate quote.
Ownership & intellectual property
Who owns the code and deliverables?
You do. Full source code and all deliverables transfer to you upon final payment — no licensing fees, no lock-in, no strings attached. The only exception is third-party libraries or open-source components, which remain under their respective licences.
Can I use the work commercially?
Yes, completely. Everything I build for you is yours to use, sell, modify, or distribute however you see fit.
Will my project be used in your portfolio?
I may reference completed projects in my portfolio unless you request otherwise in writing before work begins. I won't share confidential project details — just the general nature of the work.
Is my information kept confidential?
Yes. I treat all project information as confidential by default. If you require a formal NDA, request one before sharing sensitive information and I'll provide one.
After delivery
What support do you provide after a project is delivered?
All projects include two weeks of post-launch support — bug fixes and minor adjustments at no extra charge. Beyond that, ongoing maintenance retainers are available starting at $300–500/month depending on the service.
What if something breaks after you've finished?
During the post-launch support window, I fix it at no charge. After that, I'm available on a retainer or for ad-hoc fixes. I'll never leave you stranded with something I built.
Can I hire you for ongoing work after the initial project?
Yes. Many clients continue with a maintenance retainer, add-on automations, or new projects. If the relationship works well, I'm happy to become a long-term technical partner.
Do you provide documentation?
Yes, always. Every project includes plain-English documentation covering what was built, how it works, and how to maintain it. For software projects, this includes architecture notes and a handoff session.
Subscriptions
Can I cancel a subscription anytime?
Yes. Monthly subscriptions have no lock-in contract. Cancel before your next billing cycle and you won't be charged again. The automations remain yours, though I'll no longer manage or update them.
Can I change subscription tiers?
Yes. You can upgrade or downgrade at the start of any billing cycle. Just let me know in advance and I'll adjust accordingly.
What happens if I pause or cancel and want to restart?
I'll do my best to accommodate restarts. If significant time has passed, I may need to re-onboard briefly to account for changes in your content or platforms. Restarts are typically faster than the original setup.
Still have questions?
I respond to every message. If something isn't covered here, just ask.
Get in touch