Ordering Services

What Are Services on Opengates?

Services on Opengates are pre-defined offerings created by freelancers. Unlike tasks — where you describe what you need and wait for freelancers to apply — services are ready-made packages that you can browse, compare, and order directly. Think of services as products in a shop: the freelancer has already defined what they will deliver, how long it will take, and how much it costs.

Services are ideal when you know exactly what you need and want to get started quickly without going through the process of posting a task, reviewing applications, and interviewing candidates. Whether you need a logo, a translation, a social media strategy, or a mobile app prototype, chances are there is a freelancer offering exactly that as a service on Opengates.

Browsing the Service Marketplace

The Opengates service marketplace is where freelancers showcase their services. You can access it from the main navigation menu. The marketplace is organized by categories and subcategories, making it easy to find what you are looking for.

How to Find the Right Service

• Search by keyword: Use the search bar to type in what you need, such as "logo design," "WordPress development," or "video editing." The search results will show services that match your query.
• Browse by category: If you are exploring options, browse through categories like Design, Development, Writing, Marketing, Video, and more. Each category contains subcategories for more specific needs.
• Filter results: Use filters to narrow down results by price range, delivery time, freelancer rating, and more. Filters help you quickly find services that match your budget and timeline.
• Sort results: Sort by relevance, price (low to high or high to low), rating, or newest. Sorting helps you prioritize what matters most to you.

What You See on a Service Listing

Each service listing includes:

• Service title: A brief description of what the freelancer offers.
• Service description: A detailed explanation of the work, including what is included, the freelancer's approach, and any requirements from the client.
• Freelancer profile: The name, photo, rating, and number of completed contracts of the freelancer offering the service.
• Package tiers: Three pricing tiers — Basic, Standard, and Premium — each with different features, deliverables, and prices.
• Portfolio samples: Examples of the freelancer's previous work related to this service.
• Reviews: Feedback from previous clients who ordered this service.

Understanding the 3-Tier Package System

Every service on Opengates uses a 3-tier package system: Basic, Standard, and Premium. This system gives you flexibility to choose the level of service that best fits your needs and budget. Here is what each tier typically includes:

Basic Package

The Basic package is the entry-level option. It includes the core deliverable at the lowest price with the most basic features. This tier is ideal when you have a simple need and a tight budget.

Example — Logo Design Service:

• 1 logo concept
• 2 revisions
• PNG file format
• 3-day delivery
• Price: $50

Standard Package

The Standard package is the mid-tier option and is often the best value. It builds on the Basic package with additional features, more revisions, faster delivery, or extra deliverables.

Example — Logo Design Service:

• 3 logo concepts
• 5 revisions
• PNG, SVG, and AI file formats
• Source files included
• 2-day delivery
• Price: $100

Premium Package

The Premium package is the top-tier option with the most features, fastest delivery, and highest level of service. This tier is ideal for clients who want the best possible result and are willing to invest more.

Example — Logo Design Service:

• 5 logo concepts
• Unlimited revisions
• All file formats (PNG, SVG, AI, EPS, PDF)
• Source files included
• Brand guidelines document
• 1-day delivery
• Price: $200

How to Choose the Right Package

When comparing packages, consider these factors:

1. What do you actually need? If you only need a single deliverable with basic features, the Basic package may be sufficient. If you need more options or additional formats, go with Standard or Premium.
2. How important is speed? Higher-tier packages often include faster delivery. If you are on a tight deadline, the Premium package's express delivery may be worth the extra cost.
3. How many revisions might you need? If you anticipate wanting multiple rounds of changes, choose a package with more revisions included.
4. What file formats do you need? Some projects require source files or specific formats. Check that your chosen package includes everything you need.
5. Budget: Be realistic about your budget, but also consider the value. A slightly more expensive package that includes everything you need can save you money compared to ordering the Basic package and then paying for extras.

Placing an Order

Once you have found a service you like and selected your preferred package, placing an order is straightforward:

Step 1: Select Your Package

On the service listing page, choose the package tier that best fits your needs — Basic, Standard, or Premium. Review the features, deliverables, delivery time, and price carefully.

Step 2: Review the Order Summary

Before confirming, you will see a summary of your order, including:

• The service and package you selected
• The total price (including the platform processing fee)
• The estimated delivery date
• Any requirements the freelancer needs from you

The processing fee is included in the total:

• Standard accounts: 12% fee on top of the service price
• Premium accounts: 7% fee on top of the service price

For example, if you order a $100 Standard package:

• Standard account: You pay $112 total
• Premium account: You pay $107 total

Step 3: Provide Requirements

Many services require information from you before the freelancer can begin. This might include:

• A brief describing what you want (brand name, preferred colors, target audience, etc.)
• Reference materials, logos, or images
• Access credentials (if the work involves your existing systems)
• Specific instructions or preferences

Fill out the requirements form completely and accurately. The more information you provide upfront, the better the freelancer can deliver on your expectations.

Step 4: Complete Payment

Click "Place Order" and complete your payment through Paystack, Opengates' secure payment gateway. Your payment is held in escrow — the freelancer does not receive the funds until the work is delivered and approved.

All prices are displayed in USD. Your payment is processed securely, and you will receive a confirmation once the order is placed.

What Happens After You Place an Order

Once your order is confirmed, the following process begins:

1. The Freelancer Is Notified

The freelancer receives a notification about your order, including the package you selected and the requirements you provided.

2. Work Begins

The freelancer starts working on your order according to the estimated delivery timeline. The delivery countdown begins from the moment the freelancer has all the information they need to start.

3. Communication During the Project

You can communicate with the freelancer throughout the process using the Opengates messaging system, powered by Azure Communication Services. Use the chat to:

• Clarify requirements or answer the freelancer's questions
• Provide additional reference materials
• Discuss progress or request updates
• Share feedback on drafts or previews

Keeping communication within the platform ensures you have a record of all discussions and protects both parties.

4. Delivery

When the freelancer completes the work, they submit the deliverables through the platform. You will receive a notification that your order is ready for review.

5. Review and Approve

Review the delivered work carefully. You have several options:

• Approve: If you are satisfied with the work, approve the delivery. The payment is released from escrow to the freelancer.
• Request revisions: If the work needs changes, you can request revisions (within the number of revisions included in your package). Provide clear, specific feedback about what needs to be changed.
• Dispute: In the rare case that the delivered work is completely unsatisfactory or does not match what was promised, you can open a dispute. The Opengates support team will review the situation and help resolve it.

6. Leave a Review

After the order is completed, take a moment to leave a review and rating for the freelancer. Your feedback helps other clients make informed decisions and helps the freelancer build their reputation on the platform.

Comparing Services vs. Tasks

Not sure whether to order a service or post a task? Here is a quick comparison to help you decide:

Both options use the same escrow system for secure payments and the same messaging system for communication.

Tips for a Great Service Order Experience

• Read the full service description: Make sure you understand exactly what is included in each package before ordering.
• Check reviews: Read feedback from previous clients to get a sense of the freelancer's reliability and quality.
• View portfolio samples: Look at examples of the freelancer's previous work to make sure their style matches what you want.
• Provide clear requirements: The more detailed your requirements, the better the result. Do not assume the freelancer can read your mind.
• Communicate early: If you have questions about the service, message the freelancer before placing your order.
• Be responsive: When the freelancer asks questions or shares progress, respond promptly to keep the project on track.
• Choose the right package: Do not just pick the cheapest option. Consider what you actually need and choose the package that covers it.

Still need help? Contact our support team and we'll be happy to assist you.