Okay so, you're looking for help with machine learning or data science. You've probably heard all the hype. My goal isn't to sell you on some nebulous 'future' or 'disruption.' It's to figure out if there's a specific, measurable problem in your Columbus business that machine learning or a solid data approach can actually solve. Think less 'magic AI' and more 'smart software that makes your life easier or your decisions clearer.'
I'm a solo operator, which means you get me directly, not a revolving door of junior consultants. This keeps things efficient and personal. I've been doing this for a while, and I've seen what works and what's just a waste of time and money. I'm here to translate complex data stuff into practical solutions for your business, whether you're a startup or a more established company right here in Columbus.
## What I actually do for Columbus clients
Mostly, I help businesses get better at making decisions or automating repetitive tasks by using their data. That could mean building a predictive model that helps you forecast sales more accurately, or maybe identifying which customers are most likely to churn. Or, it could be setting up a system to automatically categorize incoming documents, saving your team hours every week. It's about finding those specific pain points where data can make a real difference.
I often start with a small, focused pilot project. No massive, year-long commitments needed right off the bat. The idea is to prove the value quickly. For example, I might take a look at your existing customer data and build a simple model that spots potential issues before they become big problems. Or, if you're drowning in spreadsheets, I can help you structure that data so it’s actually usable for analysis, giving you insights you didn't even know were there.
## How a Columbus engagement usually goes
1. **Weeks 1-2: Discovery & Scoping.** This is where we talk, and I mean *really* talk. What's bugging you? What data do you have? What would 'success' look like? I'll review your current data situation, ask a ton of questions, and together we'll define a super clear, manageable project. This usually ends with a proposal detailing exactly what I'll build and what you'll get.
2. **Weeks 3-8: Data Wrangling & Model Building.** Once we agree, I'll dig into your data. This is often the messiest part – cleaning, preparing, and structuring everything. Then, I'll start building the machine learning model or data pipeline. I'll be checking in regularly, showing you progress, and making sure we're on the right track. No black boxes here.
3. **Weeks 9-10: Testing & Refinement.** We'll put the solution through its paces. Does it do what it's supposed to? Is it accurate enough? We'll test it with real-world scenarios and make any necessary adjustments. This is also where I make sure it's something you can actually *use* and understand.
4. **Weeks 11-12: Deployment & Handoff.** The final step is getting it live. This could mean integrating it into your existing systems or providing you with a standalone tool. I'll make sure you and your team know how to use it, interpret its outputs, and maintain it. My goal is to leave you with something truly useful, not just a fancy report.
## What it costs, roughly
Look, I'm not gonna pretend this is cheap. Building custom machine learning models and proper data systems takes time and expertise. Most of my projects start in the low five figures and can go up from there depending on complexity and duration. I generally work on a fixed-fee basis after our initial discovery, so you know exactly what you're paying for upfront. No surprises. For smaller, more defined problems, I might quote a slightly lower rate, but you're probably looking at a project that runs for at least a couple of months. It's an investment, pure and simple, but one I aim to make pay off quickly.
## Who I'm usually NOT a fit for
I'm probably not the right fit if you're looking for someone to just 'do AI' without a clear problem in mind. Or if you expect a magic button that solves everything overnight. I also don't do massive, multi-year IT overhauls. My sweet spot is working with businesses that have specific data challenges they want to tackle in a focused, results-oriented way. If you're a huge corporation looking for a consulting firm with hundreds of employees, I'm not it. I work best with SMBs or specific departments within larger organizations that appreciate a direct, no-nonsense approach from a solo operator.
## Getting in touch
If any of this sounds like what your Columbus business needs, or if you just want to talk through a problem to see if data could help, I'd genuinely like to hear from you. The easiest way to get started is to book a 20-min call. We can chat, figure out if there's a mutual fit, and go from there.
FAQs — Columbus
How do I know if AI is worth it for my Columbus business?
It's worth it if you have specific business problems that involve lots of data, repetitive tasks, or decisions based on patterns. I help you identify if a data-driven solution can offer a measurable return, like saving time or increasing revenue.
Do you only work with companies in Columbus, Ohio?
No, while I enjoy working with businesses like yours in Columbus, I consult with clients across the United States. Location isn't a barrier to delivering quality data science and machine learning solutions.
What does the first 2 weeks of an engagement look like?
The first two weeks are all about discovery. We'll have several conversations, I'll ask about your goals and current data, and then I'll put together a clear, detailed plan for the project and a fixed-fee proposal.
What kind of data do you typically work with?
I work with all sorts of data: customer records, sales figures, operational logs, sensor data, text documents, and more. If you've got data, chances are I can help you make sense of it.
What happens after the project is done?
After the project, I make sure you know how to use and maintain the solution. I can also offer ongoing support or help plan future phases, depending on what you need. My goal is for you to be self-sufficient.