FAQs

What do you do?

I help competent, driven people and organisations figure out what is not working and make it work.

In practice, that might involve improving systems, fixing messy processes, reviewing websites, setting up digital tools, supporting user research, improving workflows, or helping turn a vague problem into a clear plan of action.

What is a fractional IT consultant?

A fractional IT consultant is someone who supports you with technology, systems and digital operations without being a full-time employee.

It means you can access strategic and practical support when you need it, without hiring someone permanently or committing to a large agency.

Who do you work with?

I work with businesses, organisations, small teams, founders, consultants, charities, academic projects and busy professionals.

I am usually most useful when someone knows that something needs to change, but is not yet sure whether the issue is the technology, the process, the website, the data, the communication, or the way everything connects.

Do I need to know exactly what I need before getting in touch?

No.

You do not need to arrive with a fully formed brief. In many cases, the first part of the work is helping you understand what the actual problem is.

If you can explain what feels stuck, frustrating, inefficient or unclear, that is usually enough to start a useful conversation.

What kinds of projects can you help with?

I can help with things like:

The work can be strategic, technical, operational or creative. Often, it is a mix.

Do you build websites?

Yes, I can help with websites.

That may include planning the structure, improving the copy, reviewing the user experience, building or updating pages, improving clarity, and helping make sure the website actually supports what you are trying to achieve.

Do you only give advice, or do you also implement things?

I can do both.

Sometimes you need someone to help you think clearly and make better decisions. Sometimes you need someone to actually build, set up, fix, organise or improve something.

My work is usually practical and hands-on, not just theoretical advice.

What is Cognitive Science?

Cognitive Science is the study of the mind, intelligence and behaviour. It brings together subjects such as psychology, philosophy, linguistics, neuroscience, computer science and artificial intelligence to understand how people think, learn, communicate, make decisions and interact with the world around them.

For my work, it helps me look at problems from both a human and technical perspective. I am interested not just in whether a system works, but whether it makes sense to the people using it.

What happens on a 15-minute introductory call?

The 15-minute introductory call is a short, informal conversation to get to know each other.

It is a chance to explain what you are dealing with, ask questions, and see whether I may be able to help. There is no pressure and no commitment.

If it seems useful to continue, we can then discuss the best next step.

Can I contact you without booking a call?

Yes.

You can use the contact form if you would rather explain things in writing. You can also message me through website live chat, WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger or Instagram.

If your message is detailed or project-related, I may suggest moving the conversation to email or booking a call so I can understand it properly.

Do you work with people outside Edinburgh?

Yes.

Most of my work can be done remotely, so I can usually work with people and organisations outside Edinburgh and across the UK. I am also able to travel to other countries if necessary.

Do you work with individuals as well as organisations?

Yes.

I work with both individuals and organisations. Some people come to me for help with a business, project or organisation. Others need help improving their own systems, digital setup, website, workflow or way of managing work.

How do you decide what the right solution is?

I start by understanding the problem properly.

That usually means asking questions, looking at what is already happening, identifying patterns, and working out whether the issue is strategic, technical, operational, human, or a mix of all of these.

The aim is not to add unnecessary complexity. The aim is to find a practical way forward that actually helps.

How much does it cost?

Costs depend on the type of work, the level of support needed, and the scope of the project.

For smaller pieces of work, this may be a one-off project. For ongoing support, we may discuss a flexible arrangement or retainer.

The best way to get a clear answer is to get in touch and explain what you need.

Are you currently taking on new work?

The best way to check is to contact me.

Even if I cannot help immediately, I may still be able to suggest a useful next step or point you in the right direction.

How do I get started?

The easiest way to start is to contact me.

You can book a 15-minute introductory call, send me a message through the contact form, or reach out through live chat, WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger or Instagram.