How I Work
Clear communication. Reduced friction. Realistic expectations.
Here's what working with me looks like.
Before we work together, I want you to know what to expect. I've learned that most project problems come from misaligned expectations, not technical issues. So let's get aligned.
Communication & Mutual Responsiveness
I respond quickly. I expect the same from you.
This isn't about being demanding. It's about momentum. Projects stall when questions sit unanswered for days. I commit to responding to emails and messages within one business day. For urgent issues, same day.
If something changes on your end, tell me. If you need more time, say so. No ghosting. No wondering what's happening. We're partners in this.
My commitment: You'll never wait more than 24 hours for a response. If I'm traveling or unavailable, I'll let you know in advance.
The Cone of Uncertainty
Early in a project, I don't know everything. Neither do you. That's normal.
This concept comes from software development: at the start of a project, estimates can be off by 4x in either direction. As we learn more, that uncertainty shrinks. By the end, we know exactly what we're building.
I won't pretend to know what I don't know yet. If you ask for a timeline in week one, I'll give you a range. Ask me in week four, and I'll be much more precise. That's not hedging. That's honesty.
Week 1: Estimate range is wide
Week 4: Range narrows significantly
Week 8: High confidence in delivery
Reducing Friction
My job is to remove obstacles, not add them.
I don't do meetings for the sake of meetings. If something can be decided in an email, let's do that. If we need to talk, let's schedule 15 minutes with a clear agenda and make a decision.
I use calendar links instead of email tag. I give direct feedback instead of diplomatic hedging. I make recommendations instead of presenting endless options.
Friction
- "Let me know what works for your schedule"
- Hour-long meetings with no agenda
- "There are pros and cons to consider"
No Friction
- Here's my calendar link
- 15 minutes, clear agenda, decision made
- "I recommend X. Here's why."
What I Expect From You
This is a partnership. I'll do my part. Here's what I need from you.
Access
Give me access to systems and stakeholders when needed. Don't make me chase logins for weeks.
Honest Feedback
Tell me if something isn't working. I'd rather hear it early than find out after we've built the wrong thing.
Decisions Made
When I need a decision, make it. Delayed decisions delay projects.
Single Point of Contact
One person who can make decisions and provide answers. Committee projects move slowly.
What You Can Expect From Me
Here's what I commit to on every engagement.
Direct Communication
No consultant-speak. No jargon. I'll tell you what I think, not what you want to hear.
Systems That Work
I build things that actually work in the real world, not impressive demos that fall apart in production.
Ownership
I don't disappear after delivery. If something breaks, I'll help fix it. Your success is my success.
Honesty
Even when it's uncomfortable. I'll tell you if your idea won't work. I'll tell you if we're off track.