What ancillary services can a computer programmer offer?

We have a small computer programming and analyst company - but business is slow. What other types of services can we offer with our current setup -- office, phones, secretary?

Steve Adams answered May 11, 2009|

Comment

Part of me (the part that went to business school) says that you're looking at your business the wrong way -- the business (and the people and structure) exist to serve the demand, and if you don't have enough business then you need to cut costs -- and people.

The other part of me (the part that works with friends, and is loyal to employees) loves your question!

With 12 years in business, you should start by reaching out to current (and former) clients and asking them the same question. How have their needs changed over time, and are there new opportunities that you can address? As they look to reduce costs are there projects (like ongoing software maintenance) that you can help with?

You may also want to expand your reach. Programming, while once local, is now global -- try some online ads and search engine marketing to see if you can take on projects for clients in other geographic locations.

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Steve Adams

Steve Adams is vice president of marketing for Protus, a provider of Web-based services for small- to medium-size businesses. He is a seasoned industry speaker having spoken at a variety of telecommunication trade shows and conferences. He is a graduate of the University of Waterloo and the Ivey School of Business.