Which work type is best for my project? Fixed fee or hourly?

When you post a project on Elance, you can specify whether you want to work with your provider on a fixed fee or hourly basis.

Fixed fee projects are best when you have well-defined scope and structure for your project.  You and your provider will agree upon a fixed price at the start of the project based on the requirements and scope of what needs to get done .  It's a good idea to setup specific milestones so that you and your provider have appropriate checkpoints during the project. 

If the project scope is less certain and you would like to work with your provider on a more flexible basis, then choose the hourly option.  You and the provider will agree upon an hourly rate and he/she will most likely bill you on a weekly basis for the hours worked that week.   

Whether you choose a fixed fee or hourly option, please be sure to define and document your requirements clearly and setup frequent checkpoints to ensure project success.