Wellspring Data | Frequently Asked Questions

Data is perhaps every organization’s most precious–and pervasive–asset. Yet it typically fails to fulfill its potential because we don’t connect the dots in a meaningful way. Well-designed database applications can bring meaning and utility to even the most disparate and dislocated data, helping organizations work faster, smarter, better–and ultimately–more profitably. For more insight, read “Why Build a Database?”

Why should I rely on a consulting firm, rather than developing my own solution?

Database consultants can free you to focus on your work, rather than the technology you use to do the job. We save you time and money because we can anticipate and avoid problems that may go undetected by inexperienced professionals.

How can I get the most from your services?

The earlier you involve us in your planning process, the more significant our contribution will be. We’re happy to offer a preliminary assessment at no cost to you. This gives us the knowledge we need to build an informed estimate – and it helps familiarize you with our people, our perspective and our processes

How much does it cost?

The cost depends on your project’s scope. If you need to justify the investment for budget approval, we can help you prepare a cost/benefit analysis before development begins. Most projects pay for themselves fairly quickly by tangibly boosting productivity or opening the door to increased revenues.

How quickly can I expect a solution?

Project duration depends on our role and the system’s complexity. We complete most assignments within 1-3 months. Longer jobs are typically completed in phases, so they’re more manageable for our clients and for our team. In many cases, we operate as the virtual “database department” for our client, so our commitment is ongoing.

How deeply involved must I be?

Although we respect our clients’ time, we rely on regular input and reality checks from a designated “business expert” in your organization. This helps us move efficiently toward a solution that your users can readily embrace.

Do you specialize in a particular type of database application?

What if our needs change?

By planning ahead, we can build a system that will easily change with you. If you have a flexible database foundation, incremental changes typically shouldn’t trigger fundamental restructuring. Regardless, we can help with quick fixes as well as major upgrades.

Why do you often use FileMaker software?

For years we emphasized FileMaker because it’s a stable, scalable, versatile, cross-platform foundation, suitable for most database needs – from simple Excel file conversion to ambitious enterprise-wide implementations. However, our repertoire also includes a variety of other database development tools.

Is there ready-made software I can use, instead of building a custom solution?

Many one-size-fits-all applications aren’t flexible enough to accommodate the distinct needs of various organizations. In the long-run, overcoming these obstacles can be more costly and time-consuming than hiring a consultant at the outset.

Are you comfortable working with large-scale systems?

We have deep technical know-how and we speak the language of IT professionals. That means you can trust us to adhere to corporate IT standards and operate as an advocate for you, as we build applications that run in parallel with enterprise systems.

How big is your firm?

Our two principals participate in every project. When clients require additional resources, specialized services or accelerated schedules, we augment the team with top designers and developers from our network of consulting allies.

Why should we work with you, instead of a larger firm?

You’ll receive personal attention from the founders of our organization – both of whom are highly skilled, dedicated database professionals. We’re committed to your satisfaction, and we’ll actively work to earn your trust.

Where are your clients located?

Because we’re based in the San Francisco Bay Area, most of our clients are located in California. But we serve organizations in other states as well.

Do you train users?

Absolutely. Our mission is to design, develop and deploy information systems. When documentation, orientation or training can help your users adopt a solution, we’ll lead you through every step.

COMMON QUESTIONS

Why should I invest in a database?