The verdict in three sentences
A good payment schedule favors no one at the other's expense: it aligns payments with deliverables. The common 2026 models are 40/30/30, 50/50 and stage-based payment, with a usual deposit of 30 to 50%. Well framed, it protects the agency against non-payment and the client against undelivered work.
The three common models
Here are the most widespread structures in Senegal, with their upsides and risks.
| Model | Split | Upside | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| 40/30/30 | Signing / mockup / launch | Balanced, milestoned | Tracking 3 payments |
| 50/50 | Signing / delivery | Simple | Large final balance to collect |
| Stage-based | Per validated deliverable | Very secure | More paperwork |
40/30/30 is the best compromise for a showcase project: the deposit starts the work, the second payment unlocks development after mockup approval, the balance follows launch.
Deposit, lead times and warranties
Beyond the split, these parameters must be in writing in the contract (2026 order of magnitude).
| Parameter | Usual range | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Deposit | 30–50% | Commits both parties |
| Showcase project lead time | 2–8 weeks | Frames delivery |
| Late penalty | 0.5–2% / week | Protects the client |
| Post-launch warranty | 1–3 months | Free corrections |
| Final balance | at launch | Secures the agency |
The post-launch warranty is essential: it covers bugs found after launch at no extra cost, usually for 1 to 3 months.
Aligning payment and deliverables
The healthy principle: each payment maps to a validated stage. The deposit starts design, the interim payment follows mockup acceptance, the balance is due only at actual launch. This sequencing avoids deadlocks where one pays without seeing results, or the other delivers without being paid. For payments, Wave and Orange Money enable traceable, instant transfers, a real asset in Senegal.
Need a professional website?
Kolonell builds websites that attract clients, optimized for the Sénégalese market. Free quote in 2 minutes.
Mini case study
Aminata, who runs a real-estate agency in Dakar, orders a showcase site for 600,000 FCFA on 40/30/30. She pays a 240,000 FCFA deposit at signing via Wave, 180,000 FCFA after mockup approval in week 2, and the 180,000 FCFA balance at launch in week 5. The contract sets a 1%/week late penalty and a 2-month warranty. A form bug found in week 6 is fixed for free. Both are protected: she never paid for nothing, the agency never worked without a deposit.
FAQ
What deposit is reasonable to request?
Between 30 and 50% of the total is the 2026 norm. Below 30%, the agency takes on risk; above 50%, the client should be vigilant about warranties.
Is 50/50 risky for the client?
It's simple but concentrates a large balance at delivery, which can create tension. 40/30/30 smooths risk better on both sides thanks to the interim milestone.
Is a late penalty really enforceable?
Yes, if it's in the contract with a clear rate (0.5–2%/week). It pushes the agency to meet deadlines without punishing a minor delay.
What does the post-launch warranty cover?
Bugs and corrections tied to delivered work, free for 1 to 3 months. It doesn't cover new features requested afterward, which are quoted separately.
Let's talk about your project. We'll propose a clear schedule tied to deliverables, payable via Wave or Orange Money. WhatsApp +221 77 596 93 33.
Mohamed Bah
Fondateur, Kolonell
Passionate about digital and entrepreneurship in Africa, Mohamed has been helping Sénégalese businesses with their digital transformation since 2020. Founder of Kolonell, he believes every SME deserves a professional and accessible online présence.
