The JLC Commercial Capacity Framework
A structured method for aligning service capacity with complexity, priority, stakeholder demands, and the operating requirements of each engagement.
One agreement may require a short commercial review. Another may involve several stakeholders, complex negotiation, multiple regions, technical schedules, or significant executive attention. A simple per contract limit can misstate the actual capacity required. The JLC Commercial Capacity Framework evaluates work based on the characteristics that drive effort and responsibility.
What the framework evaluates
Commercial Capacity Units
CCUs are an internal planning measure used to manage capacity consistently. They are not a substitute for scope, discipline, or a written engagement agreement.
Complexity
Structure, novelty, subject matter, technical schedules, and the number of issues requiring attention.
Risk and significance
Commercial value, operational consequences, strategic importance, and sensitivity.
Negotiation intensity
Number of positions, rounds, parties, stakeholders, and escalation points.
Responsiveness
Standard, priority, dedicated, or executive response expectations.
Stakeholder coordination
Business, procurement, finance, technology, leadership, and external parties.
Region and context
Cross border considerations, regulatory environment, industry practices, and client requirements.
How the framework appears in an engagement
The written engagement agreement identifies the service level, included capacity, service commitments, exclusions, change process, and any treatment of unused or additional capacity. JLC may use CCUs internally to plan assignments and maintain consistency, but the client relationship remains governed by the written scope and agreed fees.
Capacity changes
If volume, complexity, urgency, or stakeholder demands materially change, JLC and the partner discuss whether to adjust priorities, add capacity, revise the service level, or define a separate project. No fee change occurs without the process stated in the engagement agreement.