Douglas B. Miller, Computer Program Designer
About
I pride myself on being honest, reliable and most of all fair. I can usually resolve a problem for a customer. But even if I can't for some reason, I insist on being fair and not charging for an unresolved problem. I want people to think, this is someone I should do business with.
I like the challenge of solving computer problems and the detail work.
Highlights
No reviews (yet)
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I will call or email to set the appointment. I let them know in advance how much the job will cost if I am successful in resloving the problem. I don't ask for more money even if the job took me longer than I expected. My problem, not theirs.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a BSEE (Bachelor of Science Electrical Engineering) from The University of Toledo. Beyond that, it was just experience from being out in the field.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your services? If so, please share the details here.
It is based on $85 per labor hour, but I often skew this down.
How did you get started in this business?
I met someone in the summer of 1984 who was running a computer store and doing consulting work for lawyers downtown. I hung out with hime for a while to get an idea of what he did. A few years later, I initially patterned my business after what he did and gradually built in my own ideas over the years.
What types of customers have you worked with?
Residential and small business. A few medium sized businesses, also.
Describe a recent project you are fond of.
I recently completed a software package update for a longtime customer. The progrsam was made over 20 years ago in MS-DOS, but it wouldn't work right on a Virtual Machine on a newer PC. The problem was the batch invoice print out jammed and was unusable.
So I had to redesign the old application into a Windows format. It took me a while, but I got it finished. The customer is beginnig tto test drive the new system to get a feel for it and get out any problems she encounters so it will work comfortably for her purposes.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a pro in your area of expertise?
Try to get a feel for his or her talents and visit their website to learn more about the person. also look at online reviews for that person.
What questions should customers think through before talking to pros about their needs?
What specifically they need to have done, how the pro charges and when the pro is available. Also ask for work references.