Hi, I'm Steven, the Analytical Learner
I improve processes, policy, and people.
Process Improvement:
I believe processes should improve iteratively to remain relevant with technologies and organizational culture.
Policy Development:
I believe policies are foundational building blocks for strong organizations.
I strive to be the manager, mentor, and coach I needed throughout my career, providing the same support and guidance to others.
Featured Projects
Scripting
Bash: Master Control Program
Master Control Program (MCP) was born or necessity as I endeavored to use terminal sessions in my daily computing.
This Bash script is a terminal-based, interactive menu system designed to manage and execute various commonly used commands for different tasks. It organizes the user’s most frequently used functions into categories, providing a central control interface. The script offers a way to access applications, system administration tasks, remote server management, hacking tools, and other specialized commands in an easy-to-navigate menu.
Bash: Remrun
Remrun (remote run) is a bash script which converts local Markdown files to HTML and then uploads them to a remote website.
I wrote this script when I was experimenting with Markdown syntax and the feasibility of quick deployment of information using the least amount of power with the highest accessibility. The resulting HTML files are easily accessible from a traditional or terminal-based web browser.
Bash: Sequential File Release Automation
This script automates the process of “releasing” the next sequential file in a specified directory. Hidden files (prefixed with a dot .) are renamed to remove the leading dot, making them visible. It is designed to be executed periodically via a cron job.
Written Works
Essay: A Case for Minimal Computing
This labor of love essay is a result of a persistent question in my mind, “What is the least amount of computer we can live with?”
Read A Case for Minimal Computing.
eBook: IT Policy for Small Business
I have seen many small businesses and volunteer organizations struggle because they lack IT policy and digital expertise. Once offered for a small fee, this guide is my offering to those organizations who need guidance and some hand holding.
Managerial Resources and Tools
Manger ReadME File
A Manager README file is a document that managers create to share with their team, detailing their leadership style, expectations, values, communication preferences, and what team members can expect from them. It’s a tool to foster transparency and alignment, especially useful when a new manager joins or a team is formed.
Key Components of a Manager README
- Introduction
- Briefly introduce yourself: your role, background, and experience.
- Include personal tidbits if comfortable (e.g., hobbies, interests) to humanize yourself.
- Leadership Philosophy
- Describe your management style (e.g., hands-on, hands-off, collaborative).
- Share your core beliefs about leadership and teamwork.
- What You Value
- Highlight key values (e.g., integrity, creativity, efficiency).
- Discuss team dynamics or qualities you prioritize (e.g., collaboration, ownership).
- Communication Style
- How you prefer to communicate (e.g., Slack, email, in-person).
- Frequency and format of updates or meetings you expect (e.g., weekly 1:1s, status reports).
- Best ways for your team to reach you (e.g., for urgent issues or casual chats).
- What You Expect from the Team
- Outline general expectations (e.g., accountability, openness to feedback).
- Set behavioral norms (e.g., respect for deadlines, participation in discussions).
- What the Team Can Expect from You
- Explain how you support the team (e.g., advocacy, mentorship, resources).
- Share your approach to feedback, conflict resolution, and personal development.
- How to Work with Me
- Provide tips for navigating your quirks or preferences (e.g., “I need time to think about decisions, so I might not respond immediately.”).
- Set boundaries (e.g., response times for non-urgent messages).
- Feedback and Improvement
- Invite feedback about your leadership style.
- Explain how team members can provide input and how you’ll act on it.
- Vision for the Team (Optional)
- Share long-term goals or aspirations for the team.
Example Excerpt:
Communication Style
I prefer Slack for quick questions and email for anything requiring a detailed response. For emergencies, call or text me directly. I value direct communication but appreciate a heads-up before discussing sensitive topics.
A Manager README isn’t a static document—it evolves with feedback and changing circumstances. It serves as a starting point for mutual understanding and a tool to build trust and effectiveness within a team.
How I use the Johnny Decimal System
The Johnny Decimal System is an amazing file organization concept that has changed the way I store and access my digital files both professionally and personally.
Project Management Workbook for Non-Project Managers
I am not a project manager by trade but I have learn a lot from the projects I’ve managed the course of my career. The project management workbook is an Excel file with some basic tools a non-project manager needs to get off the ground, especially when they can’t afford project management software.