I will be your forward deployed engineer for custom software


About this gig
Your business is unique. Your software should be too.
If you've tried SaaS tools that almost fit your workflow, you know the frustration. The workarounds, the manual data entry, paying for features you don't use, and missing the ones you actually need.
Custom software used to be expensive. With modern AI-accelerated development, it's now affordable to build exactly what your business needs.
I'm a senior engineer with 20+ years of experience, including work at Dapper Labs, Chick-fil-A, and VividCortex (acquired by SolarWinds). I've built supply chain systems for 2,700+ restaurants and high-throughput backends for Fortune 500 companies.
What I build:
- Custom internal tools that replace spreadsheets and manual processes
- Workflow automation that connects your existing systems
- Custom business applications built around how your team actually works
- Integrations between the tools you already use
What you get:
- Software designed for your specific business
- Clean code in a private GitHub repository you own
- Real architecture and testing, not vibe coded slop
- No vendor lock-in, no per-seat fees, no subscriptions
Message me before ordering to discuss your project and confirm scope.
Get to know Nick P
Senior Software Engineer
- FromUnited States
- Member sinceJan 2019
- Avg. response time1 hour
Languages
English
My Portfolio
FAQ
What's the difference between this and a SaaS subscription?
SaaS forces your business to fit the software. Custom software fits your business. You own the code, with no per-seat fees or vendor lock-in. You'll have small hosting costs ($10-30/month typically), but no recurring SaaS subscriptions to pay forever.
What kinds of projects do you build?
Custom internal tools, workflow automation, business applications, system integrations, and replacements for spreadsheet-based processes. Common projects: order management, custom CRMs, operations dashboards, inventory tools, and reporting systems.
What's included in Basic package
A working custom tool that replaces a spreadsheet or manual process. Includes user authentication, database, 1 core workflow, and production deployment. Source code delivered via private GitHub repository you fully own.
What's included in Standard package
Everything in Basic, plus multiple features, workflow automation, user roles and permissions, integration with 1-2 existing systems, brand customization, and proper data migration support.
What's included in Premium package
Everything in Standard, plus advanced features, multiple integrations, admin tools, performance optimization, staging environment, and 30 days of post-launch support to refine the software once your team starts using it.
What technology stack do you use?
Backend: Go (Golang) for reliability and performance. Frontend: Svelte/SvelteKit/HTMX. Database: PostgreSQL. Deployed to platforms you own (Digital Ocean, Railway, Fly.io, AWS, or your preferred host). Proven, maintainable technology that scales with your business.
How does this compare to hiring a developer or agency?
Faster and more affordable than traditional agencies (often $20K+ minimums). More reliable than offshore freelancers. Fixed scope and price upfront, with clear deliverables. Production-ready code from a senior engineer with 20+ years of experience.
Do you use AI tools to write code?
Yes, I use Claude Code, a professional developer tool, to accelerate development significantly. This lets me deliver senior-quality work at prices and speed that would have required agencies a few years ago. Every line is reviewed by me. Real code, fully owned, modern tooling.
What if my project needs something not listed?
Most business software has unique requirements. Common add-ons: extra integrations, file uploads, advanced reporting, real-time features. Message me with your needs and I'll provide a custom quote with clear scope and timeline.
Why message before ordering?
Custom software requires understanding your specific business and workflows. A short conversation ensures we're aligned on scope, prevents delivery surprises, and helps me recommend the right package. I decline orders without prior discussion.

