What I do

Posted by Robert Merrill on November 28, 2008 under uFunctional Values | Be the First to Comment

I sort things out. I make do with what you have. I get something done.

I sort things out. From our first no-cost meeting, I’ll be sorting things out, in a curious, non-judgmental way. How does your business work? What software are you running, and where did it come from? Everything is the way it is for a reason. What are you trying to accomplish now? What’s causing you to consider adding me to the mix? What would a successful engagement look like, to you, in terms of outcome, duration, and cost?

I make do with what you have. Bringing in a consultant is a disruptive, courageous act. I know that, and I’m respectful of your business and your people. One of my former supervisors called me a catalyst—a substance that makes an existing chemical reaction run better. I’ve worked professionally in every aspect of software development except testing, and I’ve seen teams succeed (and fail) a lot of different ways. Especially now, you can’t afford to start over, either with people or systems. I was raised by Depression kids. “Fix it up, wear it out, make it do, or do without.” “Put off buying until you absolutely must, and then buy the best you can afford.”

I get something done. Ben Franklin said, “Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.” I’ll grab an end of your problem and pull. But I’ll also involve you, both business and technical people, and drag you through some new activities, experiences, and interactions on the way to getting something simple but significant done with your software and your business. You’ll have some new ways of getting things done yourselves.

For other perspectives on what I do, see Services and Clients.