> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://framework.aic.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://framework.aic.io/company-operating-manual/commercial-and-contracting-model.md).

# Commercial and Contracting Model

### Overview

Our commercial model protects the company while enabling fast, structured delivery.

We use clear contractual layers to separate long-term commercial terms from project-specific delivery commitments.

### Contractual Layers

### Layer 1: Framework Agreement

The Framework Agreement defines the master rules of engagement.

It typically covers:

* legal terms
* liability
* confidentiality
* intellectual property
* payment framework
* governance
* ordering process
* dispute handling
* termination
* data protection
* security obligations

### Layer 2: Statement of Work

The Statement of Work defines the actual work package.

It covers:

* scope
* deliverables
* milestones
* acceptance criteria
* dependencies
* assumptions
* exclusions
* pricing
* payment triggers
* timeline
* governance
* customer responsibilities

### Layer 3: Subcontractor Agreement

The Subcontractor Agreement is used where we delegate work to a third party.

It must align with the customer contract and protect the company from supplier failure.

### Layer 4: Policies and Operating Artifacts

Policies and templates enforce consistent delivery.

Examples include:

* onboarding checklist
* change request form
* acceptance certificate
* milestone report
* risk and issue log
* security onboarding checklist
* repository standards
* code review policy

### Commercial Principles

We operate commercially according to the following principles:

* No work without authority.
* No unclear scope.
* No unmanaged change.
* No untracked acceptance.
* No uncontrolled IP leakage.
* No supplier delivery without flow-down obligations.
* No payment dependency without defined evidence.