Archive for the 'xentek' Category

Photo Featured in Schmapp Chicago Guide

Published
by
Eric Marden
on June 23, 2008
in xentek
. 1 Comment

One of my photos was featured in the Chicago City Guide published by Schmapp. Well, they just launched an iPhone version of the Schmapp Chicago Guide. They’re sniffing the user agent string, so If you are using a desktop computer, this link will show exactly how the photo is displayed and credited in the iPhone version of their guide. The photo they featured is this one I took of the Allerton Hotel sign:

allerton.jpg

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Know your value, and then Ask For it.

Published
by
Eric Marden
on November 12, 2007
in articles and xentek
. 1 Comment

To invoice my clients, I use an application called Fresh Books, formerly called Second Site - at least that is what it was called when I signed up. I’ve been a customer for about 2 years or so. I signed up as part of a move to organize my freelancing and provide better service to my clients. Plus I needed a brain dead easy way of sending out invoices - something quickbooks sucked at.

They contacted me yesterday to inform me that I am the top performer “Days to Receive Payment” in your category of “Web Design and Development”. And they wanted to ask me, how do I do it?

As my “How Web Sites Are Built” pre-sales document explains, I tend to be upfront about payment. My billing practices are pretty simple actually, and were forged in the 4 years of frustration I felt during the early days years of my consulting practice.

  • If the project is a flat rate, and is under $500 - The client must pay up front.
  • If its a flat rate, and greater than $500, then a retainer must be paid up front - generally 50%. Larger projects (greater than $5000) can be done in thirds, if the client’s budget requires it.
  • If I’m billing hourly than, payment is due when services have been rendered. Basically when the code is in production.
  • All other bills are due 7 days after they are received. Fresh Books lets me know when my clients view their Invoices, an indispensable feature.

But it doesn’t stop there.

Continue reading ‘Know your value, and then Ask For it.’

passion + inspiration = innovation

Published
by
Eric Marden
on September 25, 2007
in presentations and xentek
. 2 Comments

Before I arrived at BarCamp, I wasn’t expecting there to be such a large group of high-caliber developers there. Wow, was I ever mistaken. I was also surprised by the large number of freelancers, tele-commuters and other work-from-home consultants. My anecdotal count was about 50%. This made me glad I picked the topic I did: passion + inspiration = innovation.
Continue reading ‘passion + inspiration = innovation’

who is xentek?

Published
by
Eric Marden
on September 23, 2007
in xentek
. 0 Comments

I am a problem solver. I’m the person you bring on board to simplify your work, automate your business, and generally use technology to make your business run smoother so that you can make more money. I focus on using open source technologies and innovative approaches to solving your business issues, fixing your work flow bugs, and transforming your business processes. However, I won’t shy away from Windows or Mac projects.

I have the social charisma to communicate the big picture to your customers, clients, and employees in order to lead, motivate, and inspire them to say and be a YES! in Life and in Business; all without losing the attention to detail that keeps my clients and partners coming back for more.

I’m energetic and passionate, and with enough real world experience to get the job done right. I am also young enough to guide the old guard into the new millennium, leveraging bleeding-edge technologies and trends to their full advantage, whilst being wise enough to know when to hold them, and when to fold them.

I am animated, spirited, and feisty. I bring power and momentum to any organization, project, or team. If you work with me, you won’t be disappointed.

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Software Development, PHP, XML, XHTML, CSS, JavaScript, Graphics, ASP, ColdFusion, Ruby, Web Services, AJAX, Web 2.0, Open Source, Social Web, Blogging, Word Press, Mac OS X, Linux, Windows, OOP, Business Automation, Agile Development, SOA, Security, SEO, SEM, Email Marketing, Lead Generation, New Media, Photography, Music, Resume Writing, Communications, Public Speaking, Event Management, Life Coaching, Consulting, Problem Solving, Innovation, Motivation, Inspiration, Leadership, Training

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