# Client Onboarding Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)
**Standardized Process for Digital Freelancers & Solopreneurs**

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## Phase 1: Pre-Kickoff & Contract Lock (Day 0)
1. **Invoice & Deposit Settlement:**
   - Never begin work until 50% deposit or milestone escrow is locked.
2. **Access & Credentials Checklist:**
   - Send standardized Typeform/Tally form requesting API keys, Figma links, and CMS credentials.
   - All credentials must be transferred via secure channels (1Password / Bitwarden), never in plain chat text.

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## Phase 2: Kickoff Alignment & Scope Anchor (Day 1)
1. **The Alignment Memo:**
   - Send a 3-paragraph kickoff recap:
     * *What we are solving:* [Core bottleneck]
     * *What success looks like on [Date]:* [Quantitative metric]
     * *Next check-in:* [Specific date & time]
2. **Communication Boundaries:**
   - State official communication channels (e.g., Slack / Email / Asana).
   - Expected response time: 24 business hours. No weekend firefighting unless covered by retainer SLA.

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## Phase 3: Delivery, Revisions & Sign-off (Final Phase)
1. **V1 Delivery Walkthrough:**
   - Provide a 3-minute video overview explaining architecture and implementation.
2. **Consolidated Feedback Batch:**
   - All revision feedback must be aggregated in one single document within 5 business days.
3. **Offboarding & Final Invoice:**
   - Release source files upon receipt of remaining 50% payment.
   - Trigger automated review & testimonial request sequence.