For now, "Us" is just me, Dean Ostergaard. As the site grows I'll introduce any other folks who might get involved. For now let me tell you a little bit about myself.

I have a passion for software architecture and software development. I enjoy working with software architects and developers, and participating in the software design and development process. As a manager (when I am in that role) I prefer to stay close to my teams and hands-on whenever possible. I also have a keen interest in effective software project methodologies and I am well versed in several agile / iterative methodologies as well as traditional waterfall approaches.

Most recently I was with IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. where I was Systems Development Manager. While at IDEXX I created a world class software development organization that grew from three to thirteen employees plus four contractors in less than one year. This provided IDEXX IT with the capability to deliver enterprise class applications for customer service, reference laboratory management, and the web.

By introducing Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) principles and technologies based on the BEA / Oracle SOA suite we were able to address the global enterprise application development requirements for a worldwide network of reference laboratories and customer service call centers while improving development agility, flexibility, software reuse and re-usability.

My teams pioneered the use of agile development methods at IDEXX to speed the "time to market" and improve the "customer satisfaction" of the applications we developed.

Currently, I am working on my website, "Theory and Practice," and trying to figure out how next to apply my skill, experience, and passion for Software Architecture and Development.