Whether you are an individual, a small company or an organization, finding a qualified person willing and capable of creating your custom software can be challenging. Consultancy firms willing to take on large projects are either not interested or too expensive for smaller projects.

I am a software designer and programmer with great experience and qualifications. I am able to quickly assess design considerations and combine that with the right technologies to provide you with a well engineered, maintainable, extensible custom software solution at the right price. I have a broad skill set which enables me to help you decide what technology works best for you.

Software is not easy to create. Before even thinking about writing the first line of code or even designing it, you must first figure out the specification. This crucial first stage can prove tricky even to experienced computer users. Determining exactly how unformed software is going to function requires comprehensive anticipation of all potential uses and misuses. Sometimes the challenges cannot be fully understood and the software you need requires a continuous cycle of enhancements. A large part of a software architect's task is to lead in this process, first by understanding the client's needs and then to design proper specifications. I have worked with a range of different clients from experienced consumers to people who still question if computers are needed at all.

Once the initial specification has been decided, there are all sorts of design considerations that must go into a new software project. Platform, structure and language must be chosen. Potential use of third party tools/libraries, especially open source, must be given to reduce costs and improve reliability. Consideration must be given to future expansion and through life maintainability, and the relative costs of each. A badly written piece of software can cost significantly more in the future if consideration is not given to this to begin with.

After this point the software must be written. It must be user friendly, reliable and fulfill the specification. I have had many projects, ranging from simple individual initiatives to large ones where I have had a team of developers and years to work on. I have always found development a fascinating challenge and I enjoy creating a great piece of software that people appreciate and use satisfactorily for many years.

If you have a piece of software you need writing or a legacy program that needs updating then let me know what your requirements are and I will tell you how I can help you.