Ian Richardson
Analyst Programmer

I've had the opportunity, over the last few years, to be a member of the Technology Transfer Institute, (a kind of "think tank") comprising some of the world's best technologists and thinkers. Meeting them was an experience that changed the way I think and the way I perceive what is possible.

 

Overview
A "hands-on" analyst/programmer and consultant with 18 years experience of client/server software and internet related business and project management methodology, including some of the UK's most prestigious technology projects. Experience of managing large development teams up to 80 staff.

Managed development of the UK's first ever online secure software purchasing system for Software Warehouse.

Managed development of critical systems for Global businesses including client/server applications for British Telecom, British Airways, Honda, Dun & Bradstreet, Morgan Stanley, Nokia and Halifax and Britannic Building Societies.

Acted as technology consultant for British Telecom (on behalf of E-plan Solutions Ltd) during specification of their new Broadvision-based Intranet.

Key Skills include:
Systems Analysis, PHP / MySQL programming.
Linux and Apple XServe server administration.

Strategic planning, product and team development, solutions development, project management and team coaching, business development, business process re-engineering and interface design.

Specialist in information management solutions and their application to business processes with an emphasis on solving business problems and human-computer interaction issues (usability).

Design and implementation of workflow and management reporting systems. Definition of efficient business process methodology, audit tracking and production optimisation, process definition. - "Redefining the way businesses think about information management".

 

Publications:
"The User illusion"
Journal of Work Process Improvement.

I have been influenced by many people, but some of the most interesting are here on my "wall of fame"

Doug Englebart

Doug (inventor of the mouse) is fascinating - and a true innovator. I had dinner with Doug, (inventor of the mouse) last year in Phoenix, when I was impressed by his sharp wit and warmth. But what I remember most about the conversation was Doug leaning over and saying "So, Ian...how come you have less hair than I do?"

Dr. Peter Cochrane

I first met Peter (Ex Head of BT Labs) about 2 years ago, after reading his book "101 tips for time travellers". He has a way of cutting through B.S. that is inspiring to behold. (Come to think of it...I think he made a comment on the hair too).

Dr. Leonard Kleinrock

Len is often referred to as the "Father of the Internet" as he is the inventor of its basis - packet switching. I know of his work through my exploits in packet radio before the Internet became a household word. (I know I'm a geek -OK?) Len and his Wife, Stella are two of the nicest people I have ever met.

Dr. Alan Kay

When I first heard that I would have an opportunity to meet Alan, I was thrilled - and since then I have witnessed him "in action" several times. He's one of the sharpest minds I have ever encountered.

Alan was a co-founder of Xerox Corp.'s Palo Alto Research Center (PARC), was chief scientist at Atari, Inc., an Apple Fellow at Apple Computer, and a co-founder of Vanguard.

Dr. David P. Reed

David calls himself a digitalist, which he defines as "a person who focuses on the transforming impact that digital technology has on the systems design of technological systems, business systems, and social systems."

I wish I'd thought of that first!
If there were one person I had to pick to be marooned on a desert island with, I think it would be David Reed. He personifies what it means to change the impact of technology on RW (the Real World).

And even more startling than his IQ, is what a nice guy he is. He was even happy to listen to my theory that putting practice with more than one ball is a waste of time. If you want to know why...you'll have to e-mail me.