[PLUG] David Mandel on 2892 in Oregonian

[Rich Shepard]

On Wed, 7 May 2003, David Pool wrote:

> David Mandel made the editorial page today.
> 
> http://www.oregonlive.com/letters/oregonian/index.ssf?/base/editorial/1052309336198981.xml
 
  Just a thought: what if someone tracked software RFPs (Requests for Proposals)
and assembled a group to bid on each one using open source software? There
_are_ costs associated with the acquisition: installation, training, support
and others of which I am ignorant.

  Those in the Un/Under-employed SIG could bid on the specifications. As the
software itself has no direct cost, the total package price should be at the
low end of the bid range. As long as the experience and skills of the team
can fulfill the department's/agency's needs, why not go for it and generate
some income at the same time -- if you're successful?

  If you have the time in your job search to do the initial footwork, get to
know the IT purchase decision makers starting _now_. You're not selling them
anything at this point but getting to know their needs and idiosyncracies
and they're getting to know you. If you have established a solid rapport in
advance you'll find that you get a fair and considered look at your
proposal. If it just lands on someone's desk and they don't know you from an
old keyboard you don't stand a chance.

  Think of it as a part-time job or enhancing your marketable skills.

:-)

Rich

Dr. Richard B. Shepard, President

                       Applied Ecosystem Services, Inc. (TM)
            2404 SW 22nd Street | Troutdale, OR 97060-1247 | U.S.A.
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