Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Clear communication is part of my service delivery. I explain technical decisions in plain language and make sure you understand what you're getting.

It means replacing slow, manual work with web-based workflows your team can actually use. Typical examples: turning paper forms into digital intake flows, connecting tools through APIs, and automating repetitive steps that cause delays or mistakes.

That's common. We start with a short scoping conversation to define the business problem, success criteria, and smallest useful version of the solution. Then I propose a concrete build path with clear priorities.

When I say I run 70+ services in my homelab, I'm talking about self-hosted applications—things like file storage systems, invoicing services, workflow and automation tools, monitoring dashboards, databases, collaboration platforms, backup systems, and development tools. Each one is a separate application running on my servers. It's basically a test lab where I can evaluate technology before recommending it to clients. If you ask "what should I use for X?", I've probably already tested it, broken it, and know whether it's worth your time.

No. My focus is custom web apps, websites, e-commerce systems, and integrations for businesses. I do not provide consumer device or generic IT help.

Most projects are built with Node.js and Next.js. For e-commerce, I commonly use Medusa or Payload depending on catalog and operational requirements.

Reliability comes from disciplined architecture and QA. I build with testable structures, verify critical flows, and ship with performance and SEO checks as part of delivery.

Yes, when they meet your needs. I specialize in identifying proven open-source alternatives to expensive commercial tools. My homelab runs extensive testing of both open-source and commercial solutions, so I can tell you which open-source tools genuinely work as replacements. This helps you avoid vendor lock-in and unnecessary software costs while maintaining reliability. However, if a commercial tool is the best fit for your specific situation, I'll recommend it honestly.

Yes, when it solves real problems. I don't use AI for the sake of using AI. If it makes sense for your project, I'll explain how and why.

No. Except where ongoing costs must be incurred, I don't require mandatory ongoing contracts. Ongoing care and maintenance is available if you want it, but it's optional.

Projects start at $800. Most engagements fall between $800 and $10,000+, depending on scope, integrations, and complexity. You get a clear estimate before work begins.

Simple sites are usually 1-2 weeks. Larger web apps and e-commerce builds commonly run 3-8+ weeks depending on requirements. I'll provide a realistic timeline with scope.

I'm based in El Dorado County area and work with local small businesses plus remote clients. Most projects can be delivered fully remotely.

All systems I build are fully documented for clean handoffs. You can make changes yourself, hire someone else, or hire me for ongoing care. No lock-in.

If you have a clearly defined technical problem and prefer straightforward communication over sales pitches, we're probably a good fit. Contact me and we'll figure it out.