How I Work

How I Work
Two Paths, One Philosophy

43 years of experience has taught me that successful projects start with understanding, not assumptions.

Free consultation • No obligation • 45-minutes • Free consultation to discuss your specific needs and approach

AI-generated image of How I work, using ChatGPT 5

AI-Generated image of How I Work

Generated with ChatGPT 5

The Scientific Method Applied to Software

Whether building your application or teaching you to build it yourself, I apply the same systematic approach refined over four decades.

Observe

Understand your business, challenges, and goals before proposing solutions. Ask questions until the real problems become clear.

Hypothesize

Develop technical approaches and project plans based on evidence, not assumptions. Create testable solutions.

Iterate

Test, learn, and adapt. Regular check-ins ensure we stay aligned with your evolving business reality.

How Each Path Works

Different needs, different approaches, same commitment to your success

Full Web Development

1. Free 45-Minute Consultation

We'll discuss your business challenges, current systems, and goals. No sales pitch, just understanding what you need and whether we're a good fit.

2. Exploratory Phase

Deep dive into requirements, map the project scope, define milestones, timeline, and budget. Identify risks and create contingency plans.

3. Development with Weekly Reviews

Weekly Zoom meetings keep us aligned as your business evolves. Incremental delivery means you see progress and can request changes.

4. Flexible Scope Management

"I will change direction at ANY TIME, provided there is budget remaining." Your business needs change, your software should too.

5. Remote Collaboration Only

All work is done remotely with regular video check-ins. This approach has worked successfully for decades across multiple continents.

Typical timeline: 3 months to 2 years
Investment: $15K-$100K projects
Billing: Pre-purchased hour blocks at $150-$250/hr

AI Development Coaching

1. Skill Assessment & Goals

Free consultation to understand your current technical skills, project goals, and learning preferences. Create a personalized approach.

2. Learning Plan Creation

Based on your goals and timeline, we'll create a structured learning plan that covers the AI tools and techniques most relevant to your project.

3. Hands-on Support Options

Choose from advice sessions, pair programming, rescue missions when stuck, or ongoing mentorship. Flexible scheduling to match your availability.

4. Production-Ready Guidance

Help transition from AI-assisted prototypes to production-ready applications. Address scaling, security, and maintenance concerns early.

5. Long-term Mentorship

Not training-and-goodbye. Available for ongoing questions, challenges, and strategic guidance as your skills and projects evolve.

Monthly retainers: $1K-$5K/month
Hour blocks: 1, 5, 10 and 20 hour blocks
(starting at $250/hr to $150/hr for longer blocks)
Support: Weekly check-ins, unlimited quick questions

What Makes My Approach Different

Four decades of experience has taught me what actually works

Ultimate Flexibility

Most developers resist scope changes. I embrace them. Your business evolves, and rigid requirements lead to irrelevant solutions. We adjust course as needed.

Direct Personal Relationship

You work with me, not account managers or junior developers. Every decision, every line of code, every recommendation comes from 43 years of experience.

Long-term Perspective

I build software that lasts decades, not quarters. Some clients have been with me 20+ years because I focus on sustainable solutions, not quick fixes.

Scientific Methodology

Marine biology training brings systematic thinking to every project. I test assumptions, analyze patterns, and make evidence-based decisions.

AI Integration Expertise

I use AI tools daily in my own work, so I know what works and what doesn't. Whether coaching or building, I bring real production experience with cutting-edge tools.

Earnest Communication

I'll tell you when something won't work, when timelines are unrealistic, or when there's a better approach. Your success is more important than my ego.

What to Expect When Working With Me

Clear expectations lead to successful partnerships

Communication Style

Direct, earnest, and jargon-free. I explain technical concepts in business terms and always make sure you understand what's happening with your project.

  • Weekly status updates with clear progress indicators
  • Immediate notification of any issues or delays
  • Patient explanation of technical decisions and alternatives

Response Times

I maintain reasonable response times while ensuring quality over speed.

Urgent Issues

Production problems get immediate attention, usually within hours.

Regular Questions

Email responses within 24 hours, often much faster.

Scheduled Meetings

Our weekly calls are paramount. I'm always prepared and on time.

Code Delivery

Incremental updates weekly or bi-weekly, depending on project phase.

Working Relationship

This is a partnership, not a vendor relationship. Your success is my success, and I'm invested in your long-term goals.

  • I'll challenge ideas that won't work, even if they're yours
  • I'll suggest better approaches when I see them
  • I'll admit when I don't know something and find the right answer
  • I'll be there for the long haul, not just until the project ends

Ready to Discuss Your Project?

Free consultation • No obligation • 45-minutes • Let's discuss your web development needs or AI learning goals

or Send Your Questions

Free consultation • No obligation • earnest assessment of your needs