About
April 5th, 2008 4:20:27 pm pst by 
Sterling Camden
Welcome to camdensoftware.com, the business site for Camden Software Consulting.
I’m Sterling “Chip” Camden. I’ve been an independent software consultant since 1991, and I’ve worked in the software industry since 1978. I focus on developing new software tools and language extensions, as well as helping software companies move their products forward into new technologies.
For the most part, I work from my home on Bainbridge Island, WA. Occasionally I travel to customer sites, but I prefer to carry on business over the Internet. I have clients all around the world, some of whom I have never met in person. If you’d like to be one, leave me a message here or visit the Contact page.
Besides this site, I write at a number of other places on the web. See the Sites page for more information.
Here’s my detailed résumé (PDF).
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Hey Chip,
I’ve been keeping up with you on Tech Republic and enjoy your honesty. I’m leaning toward independent consulting but don’t know if the economic client will suppor my making the leap anytime soon. What’s your experience been with downsizing and firms trying to save more $$ by outsourcing? Thanks
Nichole in Sacramento
Hi Nichole,
I used to live in the Sacramento area for six years, and I still visit a client there occasionally (Synergex, in Gold River).
I think, especially in this economy, companies will be open to any strategy that saves them money. The key for you will be making that case to them. What sort of consulting work are you planning to do? Network admin, security, etc? What types of businesses would you target? How will you save them money?
In my field (software development) I have noticed that some clients have sent me work rather than hire an employee, because the project is only for a relatively short period and they don’t have a commitment to keep paying me after it’s over.
So you could make the case either way: for short projects, you’re gone when it’s done with no messy termination, and for ongoing projects you can be essentially part-time (whether you bill by the hour or on a fixed fee). The key point is that you provide more value per dollar than an employee — just make sure your skills are up to that claim.
Now all you need is a chance to talk to them.
I am new to the software consulting business. I would just like to know if you could give me any tips ar regards to marketing. Also I would like to know if you could offer your assistance in situations where I may be made to create a software, with extra assistance, especially with coding.
Well, Nkiru — whenever I need help with programming, I google it. There’s almost always someone out there who has done something similar before. However, if you’re looking to subcontract, then send me your contact info using the contact page here.
Regarding advice on consulting in general and marketing yourself in particular, may I recommend my weekly articles on TechRepublic?