Sections
1. Understanding — the problem in our words, so you can correct us 2. Deliverables — the exact list 3. Exclusions — what is not included 4. Schedule — phases, review points and the delivery date 5. Commercials — price, deposit, milestones, currency 6. Terms — licensing, confidentiality, cancellation
What is not in it
Case studies you have already seen, mission statements, and stock photography of people pointing at whiteboards.
Validity
A proposal is valid for a stated period, because it reflects capacity at the time of writing.
Questions
Ask before signing. A proposal is a conversation document, not a contract of adhesion.