Freelance Rate Calculator
Freelancers in developing nations, particularly the Philippines, often struggle with pricing due to the 'geographic discount,' where global clients expect lower rates regardless of expertise. Without a data-driven baseline, many professionals undercharge, leading to burnout and wage inequality.
The Strategy
This tool was built to provide Filipino freelancers with a visceral, data-backed understanding of their worth. Instead of guessing, users calculate their rate based on actual living expenses, business overhead, and desired savings, then apply “geographic multipliers” to normalize their rates for international markets.
Core Features
- Contextual Baseline: Calculates rates based on skill level, work type, and local economic reality.
- The Rate Guide: A market-aware reference that compares Philippine rates against SEA and Western standards.
- Fairness Multipliers: Built-in logic (1.15x to 1.75x) to help freelancers bridge the pay gap when working with Western clients.
- Project Pricing: Translates hourly baselines into fixed-project estimates, accounting for buffer and complexity.
The Impact
By moving the conversation from “What is your budget?” to “This is my data-backed rate,” the calculator empowers freelancers to negotiate from a position of logic rather than desperation. It’s a tool for economic transparency in the global digital economy.