Michael A. Ball

Objective

Mar 2004 – Present Who’s Calling Kirkland, WA

Senior Database Developer

• Database Administration/Development/Design/Modeling
  
• Responsible for tier design efforts for projects. This included developing database design, API definition in relation to all other tiers on the projects, and full documentation of processes within the project prior to any code being written. This documentation would either be handed off to another database developer or I would be responsible for implementing the design myself.
  
• Responsible for database administration tasks of SQL Server 2000 in the development and quality control environments on Windows 2000 servers.
  
• Responsible for handling day-to-day production issues. Many times, this required quick thinking and work in order to keep our production system running smoothly.
  
• Responsible for tuning our database in order to improve performance and efficiency within the system. I was able to identify several areas where data was no longer used. We were able to remove that data using a nightly scheduled job. This saved 4 GB in our production database and allowed the indexes to be defragmented in one step. Also, additional indexing was needed to accommodate several unrepresented access methods to our data. I was also responsible for identifying, designing, and implementing schema changes in order to improve performance and maintainability of our system.
  
  

Dec 2002 – Feb 2004 Benefit Planners, LLP (A FISERV Company) Boerne, TX

Senior Systems Architect / Project Manager / Developer

• Database Administration/Development/Design/Modeling
  
• Project Management
  
• Team Management
  
• Web Development
  
• Systems Analysis
  
• Responsible for database administration tasks for Sybase ASA 6.x – 8.0 on Windows and Unix, Microsoft SQL Server 2000, and Oracle 9i on Unix database servers.
  
• Responsible for day-to-day database operations and user support. Responsible for design, modeling, development, and administration of all database activities within the organization. Responsible for researching, presentating, planning, and implementing conversion from Sybase to Oracle. Database development responsibilities involved writing stored procedures and triggers, creating tables and data structures, and writing complex queries for transactional and warehousing database applications.
  
• Managed a group of six web developers during in-house projects. This involved working with and teaching web developers how to effectively use a database to gain the best performance and data integrity. It also involved teaching a more efficient use of ColdFusion in order to gain the best performance and reusability of the code.
  
• Managed development of a number of in-house applications using ColdFusion 5.0, T-SQL, and PL/SQL. This involved the use of T-SQL and PL/SQL stored procedures with ColdFusion using a Fusebox 3.0 architecture. The applications were produced ahead of schedule while delivering optimal performance and data integrity. These teams were termed “strike teams” which were capable of development with a very quick design, development, and testing cycles.
  
• Liaison between Benefit Planners and an outsourced benefits web enrollment company. My responsibilities included managing the project, serving as technical team lead, generating exports for outsourcing, processing imports from outsource company, generating exports to various carriers, and aiding our customers during the setup phase.
  
  

Oct 1999 – Dec 2002 Serverlogic Corporation Bellevue, WA

Senior Systems Architect / Project Manager / Developer

• Systems Analysis
  
• Database and Web Development
  
• Project Management
  
• Database design, development and implementation of schema, stored procedures, functions and triggers for Internet-based systems using Microsoft SQL Server, Sybase and Oracle with PL/SQL, Transact SQL, ColdFusion. Data import, export and conversion between various database servers and types. Design, development and implementation of schema changes applied as patches. Two projects required significant travel. Data transformation using Microsoft SQL Server DTS Packages.
  Developed a complete, web-based order forecasting system for VectorSCM, a joint venture between General Motors (GM) and CNF Corporation (transportation and logistics), in an extremely large Supply Chain Management system. This was accomplished using ColdFusion 5.0 and Oracle 9i Release 2. I was responsible for the full design, development, and implementation of the ColdFusion and Oracle PL/SQL code bases. The ColdFusion code base was developed using the Fusebox 3.0 architecture methodology. I was also responsible for providing 24/7 on call support for the entire Supply Chain Management system in a 4-person call rotation.
  Responsible for the design and implementation of ColdFusion development standards for VectorSCM. This involved working with a team of seven ColdFusion developers in order to bring an existing code base into conformance with those developed and adopted standards. This projects was accomplished ahead of schedule after which I was placed into a development role to replace a departed team member.
  Management of a project to deliver a web-enabled application using ColdFusion and Sybase for AT&T Wireless Services. The team consisted of 2 other in-house employees and a contractor employed by AT&T Wireless Services. This project was delivered on time and within budget.
  Co-managed a project to bring a web-enabled timesheet system online. Team members consisted of 4 in-house employees including myself spread across four offices down the west coast.
  Managed a project using three developers from inception through analysis, design, development, testing, marketing,and on-site installation, setup, and training after purchase. This system was a content management system using ColdFusion 5.0 running against Oracle 8i/9i and Microsoft SQL Server 7.0/2000 databases. Due to the highly advanced level of all developers on the development team, this project was delivered ahead of schedule and underbudget by two weeks. Companies purchasing and implementing this system include Chevron/Texaco and Consolidated Freightways.
  Developed a method for AT&T Wireless Services to generate a standardized XML output from an existing application. This XML was then transformed using XSLT to display HTML-based reports. Also, the XML could be transformed using XSLT to generate SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) in order to provide realtime web-based graphing (vertical bar, horizontal bar, line, and pie) functionality in two or three dimensions with the option of having animations in either layout.
  Lead developer and designer of a department portal for an AT&T Wireless Services department which allowed authenticated team members to add, modify, and remove dynamic and static content. The portal involved ColdFusion, Fusebox 2.0, LDAP, and directory/file services. Worked closely with several AT& T Wireless team members and mid-level through upper-level management in order to present ideas and gather requirements and feedback.
  Was responsible for the implementation of Fusebox 2.0 as a development standard for AT&T Wireless. Because of my knowledge and experience with ColdFusion and Fusebox, I was tasked with teaching several developers the Fusebox 2.0 architecture. This involved creating document and training materials in addition to classroom training.
  Lead developer on a project for AT&T Wireless Services which provided worldwide registration functionality for participating hubs, carriers, and customers. This project involved ColdFusion, Fusebox 2.0, JavaScript, LDAP, and Sybase Adaptive Server Enterprise. Extensive use of the Fusebox Architecture for ColdFusion.
  
• Toolset: Microsoft SQL Server (6.5, 7.0, 2000), Oracle 8, 8i, 9i, and 9i Release 2, Sybase (11.5, 11.9.2, and 12.0), Allaire ColdFusion (4.01, 4.51, 5.0, MX)
  
  

Aug 1999 – Oct 1999 Vogo Networks, LLC Bellevue, WA

Senior Software Engineer

• Systems Analysis
  
• Database Development
  
• Database design, development and implementation of schema, stored procedures, functions and triggers for Internet-based telephony system using Microsoft SQL Server, Sybase and Oracle with PL/SQL and Transact SQL. Data import and conversion between various database servers and types. Design, development and implementation of schema changes applied as patches. Tasked with selecting a new database platform to accommodate the future growth and needs of the company. Designed and developed a datapump application to handle the transfer of data from one database server or type to another.
  
• Toolset: Delphi, C/C++, Microsoft SQL Server (6.5, 7.0), Oracle 8i (8.1.5), Sybase (11.9.2)
  
  

Apr 1998 – Jul 1999 ORCA Technologies, Inc. Bothell, WA

Senior Software Engineer

• Systems Analysis
  
• Software / Database Development
  
• Front-end and database development for pen-based point-of-care devices. Database design and development using SQLAnywhere and Microsoft SQL Server. Data import and conversion for quarterly and annual medication database updates. RAS dialup communications using Windows API calls from within PowerBuilder for data transfer to and from point-of-care devices to our server application. Complete PowerBuilder interface implementing First DataBank/MediSpan MedFile COM Objects to provide interaction screening for medication, allergy and medical condition profiles. ORCA Technologies is currently the only company with a live implemention of the First DataBank/Medispan COM Objects using PowerBuilder. Some of ORCA Technologies’ PowerBuilder source code has been used by First DataBank/Medispan in manuals and to train and guide further efforts in this area.
  
• Toolset: PowerBuilder, Delphi, C/C++, Microsoft SQL Server, SQL Anywhere, COM
  
  

Jul 1997 – Apr 1998 ServerLogic, Inc. Bellevue, WA

Senior Systems Analyst / Developer / Consultant

• Systems Analysis
  
• Software / Database Development
  
• Consulting
  
• Complete front-end and database design of in-house process tracking system for Year 2000 conversion group. Began work in PowerBuilder 6.0. Provided extremely complex datawindow/database-only reports for client with no scripting permitted from any calling windows. These reports were designed using datawindow and Oracle 7.3 functionality.
  
• Toolset: PowerBuilder, Delphi, Microsoft SQL Server, Oracle
  
  

Jul 1996 - Jul 1997 McHale-USConnect Solon, OH

Senior Systems Analyst / Developer

• Systems Analysis
  
• Software / Database Development
  
• Consulting
  
• Modification of an existing utility work tracking and scheduling system using Object Oriented Design and Development methodologies within Windows 95. The application was designed and written using Powerbuilder 4.0 and the PowerFrame class libraries. I was placed soley in charge of converting the entire application to Powerbuilder 5.0.02. The conversion process was then thoroughly documented for conversions of future updates from the original author. The application included more than 250 windows and more than 75 non-visual user objects which contained all business rules to facilitate database independence. The application used Oracle 7.1 through 7.3 as the database. All design and modifications were completed according to previously defined specifications analyzed by internal staff.
  
• Lead developer and technical team lead using PowerBuilder and Oracle at First Energy/Ohio Edision Corporation. This involved helping other developers when necessary in order to bring them up to speed during any phase of the development lifecycle.
  
• Toolset: PowerBuilder, C/C++, Oracle
  
  

Feb 1994 Jul 1996 MCS, Inc. Hudson, OH

Senior Systems Analyst / Developer

• Systems Analysis
  
• Software / Database Development
  
• Novell Netware Network Administration
  
• Consulting
  
• Team Leader
  
• Analyzed, designed, developed, tested, trained and implemented a completely new Windows 3.x/95 GUI front end application for an existing database structure for a major order entry/financials/manufacturing system which was originally a text based, UNIX application. Using Powerbuilder 3.0 - 4.0.04 and Sybase 4.92 and Systems 10 and 11 and Object Oriented Design techniques, the application was developed using a custom framework of which I completed a majority of the design and development. I was team leader for the manufacturing development team which included 5 team members other than myself. Some of my team members were from the client and others from my employer which was consulting on the project. My responsibilities included analysis, design, development, testing, training and implementation of the manufacturing portions of the application. I was also placed in charge of implementing a radio frequency interface for the Sybase database and barcode printing and reading.
  Team manager involving several in-house and client developers during development of an MRP system. This system contained several modules. I was responsible for assigning task, setting schedules, and defining goals and deliverables. I was also responsible for scheduling vacations and all time off for my team. Although we experienced many technical setbacks and challenges, we were able to meet more than 95% of all milestones and deliverable schedules with an extremely high level of application confidence.
  
• Toolset: PowerBuilder, C/C++, Delphi, Sybase, Barcoding, Radio Frequency (RF) Control and Processing
  
  

Aug 1992 – Feb 1994 BSC, Inc. Solon, OH

Systems Analyst / Consultant

• Systems Analysis
  
• Software / Database Development
  
• Consulting
  
• Complete application analysis, design, development, testing, implementation and training of a Windows 3.x order entry/manufacturing system for a printing company using C/C++ and Microsoft SQL Server and Object Oriented Design techniques. I was the only team member and was therefore soley responsible for its completion. The application contained barcode reading and manifest scale interfaces for shipping purposes. The project involved high levels of client management and user interaction. I also created custom modules for a financials/manufacturing system name Platinum which is Btrieve-based using Microsoft Basic Professional 7.1.
  
• Toolset: PowerBuilder, C/C++, Microsoft SQL Server, Btrieve, Barcoding
  
  

Aug 1990 – Aug 1992 CPAid, Inc. Kent, OH

Systems Analyst / Developer

• Software / Database Development
  
• Utilities Development
  
• Research and Development
  
• Electronic Tax Filing
  
• Design and development of application modules according to specifications from internal staff using Btrieve and Microsoft Basic Professional 7.1 in a text-based, DOS environment. I designed and developed a complete Btrieve interface for Microsoft Basic Professional 7.1 which used the same interface as a previous database interface avoiding the changing of any application code for its usage. I was also placed in charge of designing and developing a Btrieve file and data recovery system which shipped with our core electronic tax filing software.
  
• Toolset: Microsoft Basic Professional 7.1, C/C++, Btrieve
  
  

Education

1983-1988 University of Akron Akron, OH

• Department of Chemistry
  
• 3.62 GPA
  

1991 NRI/McGraw-Hill Washington, DC

• Computer Programming
  
• Graduated with Highest Honors
  
• Diploma
  

1991-1992 Novell Education Austin, TX

• Programming with Btrieve Certification
  
• Programming with Btrieve: Advanced Features Certification
  

1996 McHale-USConnect Solon, OH

• Oracle PL/SQL Certification
  
• PowerBuilder 5.0 Training
  

1998 First DataBank / Medispan San Francisco, CA

• COM Object interface forum
  
  

1999 - 2000 Serverlogic Corporation Bellevue, WA

• FastTrack to ColdFusion
  
• Advanced ColdFusion Development
  
• Allaire Certified Developer – ColdFusion 4.5

Languages and Tools

• ColdFusion 4.0, 4.51, 5.0, MX
• PowerBuilder 3.0 through 8.0 (9+ years)
• Borland C++ / Borland C++Builder / OWL / VCL (11 years)
• Borland Delphi / OWL / VCL (6 years)
• C / C++ (11 years)
• Pascal (11 years)
• Microsoft Visual C++ / MFC (5 years)
• Microsoft Visual Basic (8 years)
• Java (currently studying)
• Assembler (11 years)
• Basic (11 years)
• Microsoft SQL Server (11+ years, procedures, triggers, schema)
• Sybase (11+ years, procedures, triggers, schema)
• SQLAnywhere/Whatcom SQL (9+ years, procedures, triggers, schema)
• Oracle PL/SQL (7+ years, procedures, triggers, sequences, schema)
• Interbase (6 years, procedures, triggers, generators, schema)

Interests

• FAA certificated private pilot with instrument rating
• Hockey
• Baseball
• Computers