From Floppy Disks to the Cloud: A Fractional CTO's Journey in Technology Guidance

If you remember the days of floppy disks, Lotus 1-2-3, and dial-up modems, you know just how far technology has come. I’ve been in the tech trenches since the early 1980s. Back then, saving your work meant physically swapping disks and hoping that the file wouldn’t get corrupted. Fast forward to today, and the landscape looks almost unrecognizable. But you know what hasn’t changed? The need for practical, real-world technology guidance, especially for small and micro businesses.

The Importance of Old-School Roots

You might be wondering: what does surviving the floppy disk era have to do with running a business in 2025? The answer is simple. Technology changes, but the fundamentals of solving problems, making smart decisions, and extracting the most value from your resources stay constant.

Back then, we had to be scrappy. We learned to troubleshoot, adapt, and make things work with what we had. There was no “Google it” option. If something broke, you either figured it out or risked losing a week’s worth of work. That mindset—resourceful, persistent, and practical—still guides how I help businesses today.

Understanding Technology Through Experience

Another layer to my experience is that I’ve been on the front lines of every significant tech shift. I've seen the transition from text-based DOS to Windows, the evolution from structured programming to object-oriented programming, and the adoption of Agile methodologies. I've witnessed the shift from single computers to networks, the migration to the cloud, and the rise of serverless, cloud-native microservices.

When you needed more information, you bought a book. There was no GenAI at your fingertips. I’ve watched technologies rise, sunset, and sometimes come back in different forms. This perspective is invaluable. It means I’ve seen firsthand what works, what doesn’t, and what’s just a fleeting trend.

Lessons Learned from Technology

I know how to approach new technologies and choose the right solution for each business use case. This knowledge isn’t just from theoretical learning; it comes from real-life experience. That kind of insight cannot be found in a textbook or through a quick online search. It’s about living through the evolution of technology and learning from it.

My Role as a Fractional CTO

As a fractional CTO, I combine deep technical expertise with a pragmatic approach tailored for small and micro businesses. Here’s what that entails:

Practical Advice

I’ve seen every tech fad come and go. My role is to cut through the noise and focus on solutions that genuinely advance your business.

Tailored Solutions

You don’t need a Fortune 500 tech stack. Instead, I help you identify tools and strategies that match your budget and goals—no unnecessary bells and whistles involved.

Proactive Risk Management

Having lived through the risks that technology posed, I excel at spotting potential issues early and building safeguards into your systems. This allows for a smooth operation and minimizes risk.

Future-Proofing Your Business

I assist you in establishing a strong foundation that enables you to adapt and grow, regardless of what new technologies emerge.

Why Small Businesses Have an Edge

Large companies often have entire IT departments to handle their technical needs. However, small businesses usually operate with fewer resources. That’s where I come in. I serve as your trusted advisor, sounding board, and problem-solver—without the overhead of a full-time CTO.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by tech decisions or concerned that you might be overlooking valuable opportunities, it’s time to talk. I’ve experienced everything from floppy disks to the cloud, and I’m eager to help small businesses not just survive but thrive in an ever-evolving tech environment.

Conclusion: Embracing Change with Confidence

Change is constant in technology. However, with the right guidance, adapting to it can become a strategic advantage rather than a burden. Ready to blend old-school wisdom with modern expertise in your business? Let’s collaborate to make technology work for you, ensuring that you harness its full potential for growth and success.

For tailored advice, consider our services. Let's embark on this journey together!