At WpCircle, we use a Milestone-based Escrow system to ensure that projects are organized, payments are secure, and both parties are protected. This guide explains the lifecycle of a milestone, from initial funding to final payment release.
1. The Milestone Lifecycle (Step-by-Step)
To maintain a high level of security, WpCircle projects follow a linear, sequential workflow. Here is how a typical milestone works:
Step 1: Client Funds the Milestone
Before work begins, the Client must deposit the funds for the current milestone into Escrow.
- Status Change: The project status moves to “Active Development.”
- The Escrow Lock: Funds are securely held by WpCircle. The professional is notified that the milestone is funded and it is safe to start work.
Step 2: Waiting for Submission
Once funded, the professional begins working on the deliverables outlined in that specific milestone.
- Status Change: “Waiting for Submission.”
- Collaboration: Both parties can use the project workspace to share updates, ask questions, and track progress.
Step 3: Professional Submits Work
When the work for the milestone is complete, the professional officially submits it for approval through the platform.
- The Submission: The professional must attach relevant files (code, designs, documents) and include a detailed note explaining what was completed.
- Status Change: “Pending Approval.”
Step 4: Client Review & Approval
The client receives a notification to review the submitted work.
- Reviewing: The client should download the files or check the staging site to ensure the work meets the agreed-upon requirements.
- Approval: If satisfied, the client clicks “Approve & Release.”
Step 5: Payment Release & Next Steps
Upon approval, the funds move from WpCircle Escrow directly to the professional’s account.
- Status Change: “Milestone Completed.”
- Continuing the Project: If there is a next milestone, the cycle repeats. The client must fund the next milestone to trigger the professional to continue work.
2. Understanding Escrow Protection
The Escrow system acts as a neutral third party to eliminate financial risk.
- For Clients: Your money is never sent directly to a professional’s bank account upfront. It stays in the “WpCircle Vault” until you manually click approve. If the work is never submitted, the professional never gets paid.
- For Professionals: You never have to worry about “will the client pay me?” Once a milestone is funded, the money is guaranteed. As long as you deliver the work as described, the funds are there waiting for you.
3. Working with Multiple Milestones
For larger projects (e.g., a full website build), we recommend breaking the project into 3 or more milestones.
Example 3-Milestone Workflow:
- Milestone 1 (Design): Client Funds -> Pro Submits Mockups -> Client Approves -> Payment Released.
- Milestone 2 (Development): Client Funds -> Pro Submits Site Link -> Client Approves -> Payment Released.
- Milestone 3 (Final Delivery & SEO): Client Funds -> Pro Submits Final Files -> Client Approves -> Payment Released.
Important Rule: You can only fund one milestone at a time. You must complete and approve Milestone 1 before you are able to fund Milestone 2.
4. Revisions & Disputes
What happens if the work isn’t right?
- Requesting Revisions: If the submission doesn’t meet your requirements, do not click approve. Instead, use the workspace chat to request specific changes. The professional will then update the work and resubmit.
- Locked Funds: The money stays safely in Escrow while revisions are being made.
- Dispute Resolution: In the rare event that the work cannot be completed to the agreed-upon scope, WpCircle provides a Dispute Resolution service to help mediate a fair outcome.
Pro-Tips for Success
- Be Specific: Ensure the “Scope of Work” for each milestone is clearly defined before funding.
- Review Promptly: Try to review submissions within 24-48 hours to keep your project moving and your professional motivated.
- Never Pay Outside Escrow: To stay protected by the WpCircle Guarantee, never send payments via external methods (PayPal, Bank Transfer, etc.).