After the site launches and the project is over, there are two paths: we can shake our client's hands, pat our own backs, and head our separate ways. Or we can continue to build the relationship - continue to be a part of our client's success. Strong long-term relationships benefit clients by providing trust and security, like a familiar mechanic or the barber we have had since we were a kid. As merchants, we also benefit. Happy clients mean referrals and recurring income.

But support is a different type of commitment, requiring a different strategy. A dev shop becomes a different type of service provider, and needs to prepare for great long term execution. This session will cover the why, how, and when of offering support, as well as exchange ideas about the many aspects: selling, marketing, staffing, delivering and monitoring support for Drupal.

Appealing to both the technical and non-technical, topics include:

• Making the case for support: financially, realistically, & metaphysically
• What kind of support to offer and how to set boundaries
• Creating and delivering sustainable service products
• How to bill and contract support with less risk
• How to hire and retain a happy support staff
• Workflow tactics and tools we love
• Differentiating and selling your services, regardless of your shop size