Rate Log

What it does

• The quoted rate and the effective rate are rarely the same number.
• The log compares hours spent with the fee received per project.
• Three or more projects show where the estimate leaks.

How to use it

1. Use hours actually recorded, not the estimate.
2. Write one line about why the effective rate moved.
3. Compare only projects of similar type.
4. Use the log to adjust the next quote, not to blame the last client.

Safety notes

• An effective rate below the floor means the next quote must change.
• Do not average across project types; the average hides both ends.