Writing
Notes from a solo dev's workshop
Tips on managing client work, pricing retainers, and running a web development business without losing evenings to inbox archaeology.
The Solo Developer's Tech Stack for Client Management in 2026
Not a list of 47 apps. Just the six tools that actually matter for managing freelance client work in 2026, from request tracking to invoicing.
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Client Portal vs Email vs Trello vs Notion: What Actually Works for Solo Developers
Email, Trello, Notion, or a dedicated client portal. Every solo developer tries at least two of these. Here's an honest comparison of what works, what doesn't, and who each one is actually built for.
What Your Clients Actually Want (It's Not a Login to Another Platform)
Your clients don't want dashboards, Gantt charts, or another platform to learn. They want three things. Here's what they are and why most developer tools get it wrong.
How to Write Estimates That Clients Actually Approve (With Examples)
Most freelance developer estimates are too vague, too technical, or too late. Here's how to write estimates that clients understand, approve quickly, and that protect both sides when scope gets questioned.
Why Your Clients Don’t Use the Tools You Send Them (And How to Fix It)
You set up a Trello board. Shared a Notion page. Maybe even tried Asana. Your clients used it twice and went back to email. Here's why it keeps happening and what actually works.
The Hidden Cost of ‘Can You Just…’ Requests (And How to Track Them)
Those small 'can you just...' requests feel harmless on their own. Add them up over a year and you're looking at thousands in unbilled work. Here's how to track them without being awkward about it.
How to Stop Clients Emailing You ‘Where Are We Up To?’ Every Week
The 'where are we up to?' email is a symptom, not the problem. Your clients chase you for updates because they have no other way to check. Here's how to fix that.
How I Manage 10+ Retainer Clients Without a Project Manager
A solo developer's honest walkthrough of managing ongoing retainer clients without a team. The morning routine, the prioritisation framework, the estimate loop, and the bits that are still messy.
5 Signs You’ve Outgrown Email for Client Work
Email works until it doesn't. Here are five signs that your inbox has stopped being a tool and started being a liability for your freelance development business.