OS/2 Consulting

E-Mail: neil@blondeguy.com
Phone: (831) 427-1529
Address: 130 Serra Ct., Santa Cruz, CA 95060

My name is Neil Waldhauer. As Blonde Guy, I specialize in the OS/2 and eComStation computer operating systems. My priority is delivering substantial value to my clients, on-time and on-budget. I understand the pressures involved in complex software development projects, and will work with you to achieve timely and cost-effective solutions.

Business model

Blonde Guy is a sole proprietorship. In my home office, I have created an efficient development lab with DSL internet access, web servers, and my favorite programming tools. I handle most aspects of the business personally. When you deal with Blonde Guy, you know that I'll be doing the work, not someone less experienced. I have lower expenses and I'm focused on OS/2 and eComStation support.

I work with organizations as large as the New York Subway System, where I took over maintenance of OS/2 software used by the MetroCard fare card System, and as small as one-person businesses, where I am sometimes on a retainer for consulting on an as-needed basis.

I've been writing software since I was in junior high school, on a wide variety of systems and in multiple languages. I started writing OS/2 programs in 1990. I founded Blonde Guy when IBM wound down OS/2, leaving clients without support. My best customers have OS/2 software that has worked for years, and don't find it cost effective to switch platforms.

Software development and maintenance

I produce comprehensive, high-quality software solutions. I emphasize thoroughness and efficiency. I offer excellent problem-solving skills, and bring a no-nonsense approach to software development and documentation.

I create applications for OS/2 using C/C++, Rexx or Java. I have done product releases including requirements, design, documentation, builds, testing and release. I have taken charge of maintenance of several client's OS/2 software. I have ported software to and from the OS/2 platform.

I wrote Suntan Special, an OS/2 software application that adds, updates and removes OS/2 programs. Suntan Special is used to produce Blonde Guy computers, and is also sold as an end-user product.

Installation and Configuration

I am an expert at installing OS/2 on diverse hardware. I recommend compatible peripherals and work to create OS/2 support for new devices and peripherals. I solve device driver problems, configure OS/2 and find solutions for problems with OS/2 systems.

Blonde Guy purchases used laptops, then uses factory restore media and other software to produce dual boot computers running the original Windows and latest eComStation. Blonde Guy also produces new desktop computers that run the latest eComStation.

Web site design

The Blonde Guy website is used to advertise and administer sales of computers, Suntan Special, eComStation licenses and software. I created the website with variety of tools such as HTML, JavaScript, web page layout using Cascading Style Sheets and tables.

I have created an on-line ordering system to help with accounting and taxes. I use my customer list, the web-site and OS/2 user groups to market my products. I handle customer support and work with suppliers. I write articles about OS/2 and eComStation to help promote my business.

I wrote an on-line ordering system to manage my inventory, list of customers and orders and generate business data for accounting and taxes using Java and WebSphere hosted on an OS/2 server.

I host and administer the PMMail/2, BayWarp.org and DreamersDeck.com websites.

Project management

I manage the PMMail/2 project, leading a world-wide team of developers on the OS/2 e-mail client program. I coordinate product planning, bug reporting, source code management and software releases. The entire project is done remotely, using e-mail and web tools.

I serve on the board of directors of Warpstock Corporation to put on an annual OS/2 technology conference.

More Information

	Consulting Rates These are my standard rates for expert consulting for OS/2 and eComStation.
	Employers and Clients This is a list of employers and clients. The distinction between an employer and a client is not a clear one, and sometimes boils down to which tax document is filed, W2 or 1099.
	resume My education, professional associations, computer skills and my patent.
	Office Resources I describe the resources of my home office in Santa Cruz.
	Mission Statement The Blonde Guy Mission statement.
	Privacy Statement The Blonde Guy Privacy statement.
	Interview An interview with Neil Waldhauer, proprieter of Blonde Guy.