e7n Services
Practical automation services for small and medium businesses.
Whether you need to understand where automation fits, build a small prototype, connect your existing tools, or scale a working solution, I adapt to your needs and budget. Four core service areas cover the full journey:
Choose the entry point that matches your current needs. Whether you want to explore where automation fits, build a quick proof of concept, connect existing tools, or scale something that already works, I adapt to your situation and budget.
1. Automation Discovery
What
I spend time understanding how your business actually operates before suggesting solutions. This means looking at the tools you use, the tasks that eat up time, and the handoffs where things slip through cracks. The output is a clear map of where small automation wins can make the biggest difference.
When
You suspect automation could help but are not sure where to start. You want an honest outside perspective on your workflows before committing to any build.
Output
- Workflow documentation showing current processes
- Pain point analysis with time/cost estimates
- Prioritized list of automation opportunities
2. Prototype Development
What
Turn ideas into small working solutions quickly. This might be a simple internal tool, a workflow connector, or a reporting dashboard. The goal is to prove value before committing to anything larger. In past projects, this approach has cut time-to-value by up to 33%.
When
You have a specific problem and want to see a solution working before making a bigger investment. You need to prove feasibility or build internal support for a larger project.
Output
- Working prototype you can test with real tasks
- Technical notes on how it works and what it would take to scale
- Clear recommendation on next steps
3. Workflow and System Integration
What
Connect the tools you already use to remove double-entry and reduce manual work. This might mean linking your CRM to your invoicing system, automating data entry from forms, or creating reports that pull from multiple sources. The focus is on practical connections that save time every day.
When
Your team is copying data between systems, chasing information across tools, or spending time on tasks that feel like they should be automatic. You want to get more from the software you already pay for.
Output
- Working integrations between your existing tools
- Documentation your team can reference
- Simple monitoring to catch issues early
4. Scale-Up and Delivery Management
What
If a prototype works, I can harden it for daily use or manage internal/external developers to deliver the full version. This includes making it reliable, adding proper error handling, and ensuring your team can maintain it. The goal is a solution that works without constant attention.
When
A prototype has proven its value and you want to roll it out properly. You need someone to manage the build while you focus on running the business.
Output
- Production-ready version of your prototype
- Handoff documentation and training
- Support plan tailored to your needs
5. Ongoing Support
What
Flexible options after launch. I can provide ongoing support, help your team take ownership, or a mix of both. The aim is to leave you in control of your systems without creating dependency.
When
You want continuity after a project completes, or you need help building internal capability to maintain what we have built together.
Output
- Support agreement matching your needs
- Knowledge transfer sessions for your team
- Documentation and runbooks
How Engagements Run
Discovery Call (30 min)
A short, focused conversation to understand your business and determine suitability. I ask about your current workflows, pain points, and goals. You get honest feedback on whether automation makes sense and what a realistic first step might look like. No obligation, no sales pitch, just clarity.
Workflow Review (1-2 weeks)
If we decide to move forward, I spend time understanding how your business actually operates. This means looking at the tools you use, the tasks that eat up time, and the handoffs where things slip through cracks. The output is a clear map of where small automation wins can make the biggest difference.
Prototype Sprint (2-4 weeks)
A time-boxed, cost-controlled build of one focused solution. This might be a simple tool, a workflow connector, or a reporting dashboard. The goal is to prove value quickly before committing to anything larger. You see working software early and can adjust direction based on what you learn.
Scale or Hand-off
At the end of the sprint, you have something working and a clear picture of what comes next. Either we extend the solution, I help your team take ownership, or we stop with minimal sunk cost. Flexible options based on what makes sense for your business.
Pricing and Approach
Fixed-Fee Options
Discovery and prototype phases are fixed-fee so you know the cost upfront. Larger projects use milestone pricing with clear deliverables.
No Surprises
Scope changes are discussed before any extra work happens. You stay in control of the budget throughout. Research shows typical payback periods of 6-12 months for focused automation projects.
You Own It
Everything I build belongs to you. No lock-in, no ongoing fees unless you want ongoing support. Documentation included so your team can maintain it.
Ready to explore automation?
You can start small. Book a short intro call to explore where automation may help.
FAQ
How do projects start?
A 30-minute discovery call to understand your business and see if automation makes sense. If it does, we agree on a small first step with clear deliverables and fixed cost.
What kind of businesses do you work with?
Mostly small and medium businesses in Berkshire, Wiltshire, Oxfordshire and beyond. Local service businesses, growing SMEs, startups, and operations teams who want to work smarter.
How much does it cost?
Discovery and workflow review typically cost a few hundred to a few thousand pounds depending on complexity. Prototype sprints are fixed-fee, usually in the low thousands. Larger builds are priced by milestone.
How long do projects take?
Workflow review: 1-2 weeks. Prototype sprint: 2-4 weeks. Full solutions: 1-3 months. I aim to deliver useful results quickly rather than lengthy consulting phases.
Who owns the work?
You do. Everything I build belongs to you. No lock-in, no ongoing fees unless you want ongoing support. Documentation included so your team can maintain it.
What tools and technology do you use?
Whatever fits your situation. Often this means connecting tools you already use like Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Xero, HubSpot, Airtable, or similar. I use modern development tools to build custom solutions where needed.
Do you work with our existing software?
Yes. The goal is usually to connect and automate what you already have rather than replacing everything. I work with whatever tools your team uses.
What if I am not sure what I need?
That is what the discovery call is for. I can help you figure out whether automation makes sense and where to start. No obligation, just an honest conversation.
Are you based locally?
Based in Hungerford, Berkshire. I work with businesses across Berkshire, Wiltshire, Oxfordshire and beyond. Most work is remote, with in-person meetings as needed.
What happens if it does not work out?
Projects are structured so you can stop at any phase with something useful. Discovery gives you a workflow map. Prototype gives you working software. You decide whether to continue.
How do you measure success?
We agree on what success looks like at the start, usually time saved, errors reduced, or tasks automated. I track progress and share updates regularly.
What about data security?
I follow good security practices and work within your existing policies. Data stays under your control. I am happy to sign NDAs and discuss specific requirements.