Topic: keeping track of time and billing?

Can someone give me some suggestions about keeping track of time worked on a project and what's considered billable work, and what isn't?

I tend to get so lost in the computer when I'm working on something, that I forget to note what time I start working.

Also, what's a fair per hour rate to charge someone for design work... for print and for the web...

Much obliged...


Bodhisattva: an enlightened being full of generosity who chooses to remain on this plane in order to help others find enlightenment.

Never mind, I found the FAQ. Unless of course, someone has some fresh ideas about all of this....

Billable time is:

1) Typing on the keyboard (for the client).
2) Using your mouse (for the client).
3) Talking on the phone (with the client).
4) Talking in person (with the client).
5) Doing research (for the client).

Not Billable:

1) Looking out the window
2) Twiddling your thumbs
3) Talking your dog for a walk
4) Eating dinner (without the client)
5) Sleeping
6) Many other tasks that resemble the above and some that don't.
7) Time spent in the asylum is not billable.

I think you could break this down to two simple things.

If you are actively persuing something that will help out your client or the project for the client then that could be considered billable time. What you don't bill the client for in this respect is education that you are doing towards the project if you did not specify that you will be charging for it. Your client shouldn't have to pay for you to learn something you told them you know. But then at the same time, you might spend time musing over a design you are working on for the client and you should bill for this time.

If you are doing other things that are not in active persuit of realizing the contractual goals of the contract between you and your client do not bill for the time.