I'm a business software specialist and have been developing web and desktop applications since the late 90s.
I've coded for BT, Royal Bank of Scotland, The Post Office, Vodaphone, Mckann Ericsson, British Army, Aptuit, Carole Nash, Marie Curie, Dams Furniture, Parity Solutions and many others, some under NDA.
I occasionally work with other trusted specialists as required.
I don't have many clients by design so you won't find me on freelance websites. I focus on long term relationships with predictable work flow requirements. Much of the work I undertake and enjoy is complex, over 20 years I've become extremely efficient at it.
If you're looking to become a client I'll let you know if I'm booked up. As an existing client, you always take priority.
I would characterise my client support as fanatic.
If it's their problem, I make it mine.
I've supported high-availability systems for many years, and no issues yet.
Don't forget that the code I supply is written in industry standard Microsoft technologies and you own it. Any good freelance or contract developer could pick it up immediately if you'd prefer.
My daily rate is £450
Long term clients enjoy discounted rates by negotiation for ongoing and repeated work
For smaller projects with clear specs I'll work with you to provide a fixed cost.
Micro systems with 5 or so features and limited functionality will be around 2-5k, rising to 20k+ for more complexity and payable to an agreed release schedule.
Large, complex and ongoing system development will cost considerably more but typically paid throughout the system's lifetime.
This depends on how busy we are, as guidance limited functionality requests can be turned around in a few weeks.
Micro systems will take several months.
Large systems will take a year or more but are often released by functional unit. This softens the wait and allows you to see progress and use parts of the system as they are completed.
If there's an OTS solution that fit you well I'd advise you continue to use it.
Commonly cited reasons my clients have opted for custom software include over an OTS solutions are:
No, my focus is on developing back-end systems.
I use templates to provide the user interface (same as many other companies). These are cheap to license, are robust, user-friendly and many look incredible.
For public facing interfaces which have to be on brand I'll work with your chosen designer/agency or recommend one if required.
I work with Microsoft technologies. Well supported, extremely capable and familiar to many developers:
To manage costs in addition to the in-house QA I expect clients to engage fully with the process and undertake thorough acceptance testing before launch.
Any further post-launch code issues will be covered by a 6 months warranty, valid from launch date.