FAQ
When are you available?
I am currently available for small, part-time projects.
Why should I hire you as a consultant?
There are a number of factors to consider. First, my application development experience allows me to complete projects quickly and successfully. I am committed to the success of my projects. My ability to ‘think outside the box’, unique problem-solving approaches and superior communication skills will add value to any development efforts.
Are you hiring?
No. I am working as a consultant, and running my practice on an independent basis.
Do you work on a fixed-price basis, or on a time and materials basis?
I prefer to work on a time and materials basis, but I am willing to do shorter, fixed-price contracts based on an estimate which I prepare.
Do you have any software products?
No. My business is a consulting practice providing custom application development services.
Are you willing to travel or relocate?
I will be staying in Winnipeg, but I would be willing to travel for the right opportunity.
Are you a Java developer?
I am a Sun Certified Java developer, and have done some small internal projects using Java.How long have you been using PowerBuilder?
A little over nine years in total. I started with Version 2 in 1993 and have used every major release of every version since then.
Have you ever been certified as a PowerBuilder developer?
Yes. I was certified at the associate level on PowerBuilder 3. I was always willing to recertify if necessary, but so far, it has not been necessary.
Would you consider a project using development tools other than PowerBuilder?
I welcome any database or integration work. I am also proficient with Rational Software Architect.
What kind of work do you like to do with PowerBuilder?
I like to design object-oriented applications, and I like to design the GUI. I like coding at any point in the development process, but prefer applications where I start the coding. I enjoy mentoring other developers, at any level.
Do you have experience writing PowerBuilder applications that use database triggers and stored procedures?
Yes. I have written some triggers, and quite a few stored procedures. I have also written several Oracle Packages where the functions were heavily integrated with a PowerBuilder application.
Do you practice object-oriented design and programming techniques?
Absolutely. I have personally saved months of development time by starting with a solid, practical object-oriented framework. This approach supports the change that is inevitable using a rapid application development methodology.
What team development experience do you have?
I have worked on small, medium and large projects. I prefer smaller teams (less than 10 people) since I find that it makes it easier to communicate effectively and keep the project on track.
What experience do you have estimating software development projects?
I have successfully used a methodology for scoping and estimating PowerBuilder projects after the design documents are completed. It lends itself to creating a good, manageable project plan.
How much data modeling experience do you have?
I have used ER/Win on large (> 300 table) and small datamodels. I have taken a 150 table datamodel from conceptual design through to the post-implementation maintenance of the physical data model. I have used ER/Win for enhancing systems, and for creating scripts to alter tables and create and modify triggers. I have also been responsible for keeping the historical collection of scripts necessary to maintain databases. For the last couple of years, I have been using PowerDesigner, and find that the more I use it, the more I like it. I love data modeling.
What types of industries and applications do you have experience with?
Please see my Industry Experience page.
How much accounting experience do you have?
I took three introductory accounting courses and one managerial accounting course. I have systems experience with contra accounting, creating G/L entries, and cost accounting.
Can you provide references?
Yes, I will provide contact information for my references on request.
Can you receive a fax?
No, but arrangements can be made if necessary.
I really like your web site. Who did your design?
My friend Michael Zajac built the site for me. I don’t do web design myself, and I am awed by his skills. I did the PHP programming for the photos myself, and I also maintain the HTML on the rest of the site.