FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. What credentials does Vin D'Amico have beyond being a principal and founder of DAMICON? What experience does he have?

Vin has over 25 years of experience in computer systems and software applications. He has worked his way up the ranks as a computer programmer, software project leader, program manager and executive. He has been giving process, documentation and technology guidance to businesses since 1988. In addition, he has been through the Initial Public Offering (IPO) process and ISO 9001 certification during his career. To learn more about his credentials, read the about page.

2. What is DAMICON's consulting approach? How hands-on are you?

Every situation is different. We can get as hands-on as required. We are experts with many Microsoft and open-source tools and have relationships with software development firms. We have done network configurations and performance tuning. We have managed many software development projects and have "seen it all". At DAMICON, we roll up our sleeves and implement the solution for you. Or, if you prefer, we can team up with your staff to get the job done together. Our approach is to offer very specific advice and targeted help to solve problems and meet business goals.

3. What is your fee structure? Do you work on an hourly basis, a project basis or on a retainer?

The short answer is all of the above. Generally, we prefer to work on a fixed-price or project basis. Let's agree on what needs to be done, how long it will take and what it will cost. No surprises. Sometimes a situation can be very complex and hard to define in which case we may request an hourly arrangement. We can also provide you with ongoing assistance and advocacy for a fixed monthly fee.

4. Do you provide written proposals or contracts?

Absolutely. Proposals are used for project consulting where a defined set of tasks are to be completed in a specified period of time. A contract spells out other details such as payment rules, work product ownership rights, competitive guidelines, etc. Both documents benefit both parties.

5. How would you describe your ideal client?

The ideal client has a clear vision for his or her business and needs expert technical assistance in making that vision reality. We don't tell our clients how to run their businesses. We assume that they are the subject matter experts inside their environment. We can help by bridging the gap between business and technology whether the target audience is employees or customers.

6. How about your worst clients.

Frankly, the worst clients are those that think they want to change or improve the way they do things but lack the willpower to confront change. We end up spending a lot of time on the project and have nothing to show but some revenue. These relationships don't last long, as both of us soon wonder why we're bothering. We're not in this just for the money. We want to see our clients succeed.

7. What are you best at?

DAMICON is best at drawing out the real issues affecting a problem and offering ideas for creating a solution. Our approach is to work fast and get ideas out in the open so they can be fleshed out. Only then can proper procedures and documentation be developed.

8. What are you worst at?

DAMICON is focused on business-to-business organizations. We don't typically deal with the consumer-oriented retail operations or manufacturing facilities. If you require such assistance, we'd be glad to put you in touch with an expert in one of those areas.

9. Can you supply me with references?

Of course. Consulting firms have a confidential relationship with clients and must protect it. However, we can provide references to serious prospects so that they may speak with them directly.

10. Okay. I'm interested. What should I do next?

Please contact us.

To learn more about how DAMICON can help your business, please take a look at our service programs.

The Right Mix

There are many consultants among us. Some great, some not so great. Choosing a consultant can be difficult and agonizing.

It seems that there are many "pure business" consultants. They understand business operations but are completely clueless when it comes to computer technology.

Then there are "computer consultants" who can make computers and networks jump through hoops. Great. But how does your business harness that power effectively?

We combine those skills and focus them on leveraging technology to communicate effectively and improve business operations. Proper procedures coupled with clear documentation provide the winning framework.

We also do our best to be very honest and forthright with our prospects and clients. We want you to understand what we do. You also need to understand what you need to do to make our relationship successful.

Once we've set expectations on both sides, we have the foundation for a great business relationship. The success of our business depends on the success of the work we do for you.

That's the most powerful incentive we have to do a great job for you!