Frequently Asked Questions

How long does each audit typically take?

The Software Project Audit, AI Software Audit, and AI Audit reports are usually delivered within one week of completing all interviews.

What level of involvement is required from my team during the process?

For the best results, it's preferred to have full access to all stakeholders and team members. Interviews can take anywhere from 30-60 minutes each, and there may be some additional follow-up questions that can be answered by email.

Can the audits address both legacy systems and modern cloud-based architectures?

Absolutely. The intersection of legacy and modern systems can present some of the largest challenges and opportunities.

What specific outputs or deliverables can we expect from each audit?

The main deliverable of the Software Project Audit is a PDF report with 3 sections: 1) Observations, including all general and interview notes, 2) Problem Identification, including root cause analysis and a triage section that identifies the most critical aspects to address first, and 3) Recommendations, the most detailed section that provides actionable steps to address each one of the identified issues.

The AI Software Audit and AI Audit are structured similarly, except the second section is called Opportunity Identification and lists and triages areas where AI could add value.

Are the recommendations actionable without requiring further consulting?

Yes, the reports provide enough detail to implement recommendations without any further guidance. If you'd rather have me own the implementation, that's what the Fractional CTO retainer is for.

Do you build software, or only advise?

Both. Most of my time since 2022 has gone into building AI-powered software, and I build custom software for clients, from internal tools to full products. An audit is often the starting point, but it isn't required. If you already know what you want built, just email me.

What is a Fractional CTO, and how is it different from an audit?

An audit is a one-time project with a report at the end. A Fractional CTO engagement is an ongoing monthly retainer where I own your technical roadmap and decisions for a fixed number of hours each month. Retainers start at $4,000 per month. Many Fractional CTO engagements start with a Software Project Audit so the first month is spent on the right problems.

Can your AI recommendations work with existing tools and platforms we already use?

In most cases, yes, but if you are not already using any AI-capable software, the recommendations will include some new software and platform options.

What does the audit price include, and are there hidden fees?

The price shown is all-inclusive when run remotely. If you prefer in-person evaluation, there is a daily on-site charge, plus travel costs.

Do you provide ongoing support or implementation services after the audit is completed?

I'm happy to answer any questions about the report after it has been delivered. For ongoing help, or if you want me to own the implementation, see the Fractional CTO page.

How do you ensure alignment between your audit recommendations and our existing team’s workflows and goals?

This is an integral part of the interview and analysis process, but note that the report will likely include recommendations to change and optimize some of your existing workflows and processes.

Is there government funding for AI projects in Canada?

Some. BDC LIFT lends businesses with over $1 million in revenue the money to adopt AI, at a better rate when a Canadian builder does the work, and NRC IRAP makes non-repayable contributions to smaller businesses for AI planning and pilot projects. I've written up what's actually available and a detailed page on using BDC LIFT for a custom AI build. I don't write applications or charge for "getting you approved"; I build the project the funding is for.

Where are you located, and do you work on-site?

I'm based near Metro Vancouver, BC. On-site interviews and visits are available in both, at a daily rate plus travel. Everywhere else in Canada and the United States, I work remotely, which is how most clients work with me anyway.

Can you accommodate projects of varying sizes, from small teams to enterprise-level initiatives?

The AI Audit and AI Software Audit can be applied broadly to organizations of any size, but the Software Project Audit is designed to work best with teams of 20 people or less. If your project team is larger, or the project spans multiple teams, contact me for a custom plan.