⚖️ Set Expectations Like a Pro: The "Cheap, Good, Fast" Rule for SaaS Agencies

Learn how to set clear boundaries with clients using the proven “pick two” framework. Discover why managing expectations protects your time, your team, and your profit.

Why Unclear Expectations Burn Founders Out

As SaaS agency owners, we want to please clients. But without clear expectations, we often set ourselves up to:

Overwork

Undercharge

And disappoint—despite delivering quality

That’s a lose-lose.

In this episode, the speaker shares a hard-earned lesson:

“I burned myself severely when I didn’t set up realistic expectations with a client.”

Now? She sets the tone before any work begins—with three simple words.

💡 The Strategy: Cheap. Good. Fast. Pick Two.

This classic framework protects your energy, pricing, and timelines:

Want it fast and good? It won’t be cheap.

Want it cheap and good? It won’t be fast.

Want it cheap and fast? It won’t be good.

You set the rules upfront, so clients understand the trade-offs.

This simple triangle:

✅ Creates instant clarity
✅ Reduces scope creep
✅ Filters out mismatched clients

You don’t need to say yes to everything. You need to say yes with alignment.

📈 Real Example: From Burnout to Boundaries

In the episode, the speaker recalls a client project where she tried to overdeliver on all three fronts—cheap, good, and fast.

The result?

❌ The work took too long
❌ The client got frustrated
❌ She ended up resenting the process

That’s when she made the shift:

Now I clearly say, “You can only pick two.”

And her client relationships?
Smoother. Profitable. Sustainable.

🛠️ Actionable Tip for SaaS Founders

Here’s how to apply this today:

1. Add the “Pick Two” Triangle to your proposals, discovery calls, or onboarding slides.

2. Verbally explain the trade-off with examples:

“If we rush this, we’ll need more budget for more hands.”
“If we keep the budget low, let’s allow more time.”

3. Stick to it. When clients push back, re-anchor them to the model.

4. Protect your delivery team by setting realistic timelines and pricing that match.

This one framework prevents burnout and builds trust.

🔚 Conclusion: Expectations Make or Break Your Delivery

Most client conflicts don’t come from poor work.
They come from mismatched expectations.

Set boundaries. Communicate trade-offs. Stick to your triangle.

When clients understand the value of cheap, good, and fast—but not all three—they’ll respect your time, your team, and your pricing.

For more insights and valuable tips, be sure to check out the Pivot to Thrive Podcast and visit pivot2thrive.com.au. Remember, if your current strategy isn't working, you don't have to quit; just pivot!

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