DataFlex Computer Services Making Computers Work for People for Over 20 Years

About DataFlex Computer Services

Mark Puckett dba DataFlex Computer Services

Education

BA in Political Science with a concentration in International Relations, UNC-Asheville 1977

I first got my hands on a DEC PDP 11/40 minicomputer in 1974, through a teletype terminal at UNC-Asheville that saved programs on punched paper tape. I took the only programming course offered at that time, Math 141, "Introduction to programming."

I hung out in the computer room trying to learn more. Ron Parker also spent a lot of time in the computer room and was most helpful to me. Ron patiently answered my questions and helped debug my code when I was stuck. Working with Dr. Bob Farzanegan, Ron developed the first interactive computer-based version of "The Inter-Nation Simulation." When Ron graduated in 1976, he passed the project to me. I added interactive "what if" capabilities so students could project the consequences of their decisions before committing to them.

Business, Computer, and Network Experience

1980 to 1988 - Application Computer Systems
Despite having a degree in political science, not computer science, I landed my first programming job at Application Computer Systems in Greenville SC in 1980. Working with MAI Basic Four minicomputers, I installed and supported the first computerized accounting, inventory and job costing systems for many businesses across the upstate. ACS expanded to Charlotte in 1986 and I hit the road for two years before moving to NC in 1988.

IBM's PC arrived in 1982 and Apple's Macintosh arrived in 1984. I explored both of them and even got my hands on an Apple Lisa for an afternoon. Checking out new technology is still important and exciting to me.

1988 to present - Self employed dba DataFlex Computer Services

1988 - 1992
I developed accounting and inventory control programs running on networked PCs. I provided the hardware, software, installation, training and support.

1992 - 1998
I became an authorized HP Reseller and moved MAI Basic Four systems users to HP 9000 Unix servers integrated with networked PCs and printers. As we added more PCs to the network, I set up Windows servers for file and printer sharing.
In the mid 1990's I implemented a PC based document imaging system for one of my customers that had been using microfilm.

1998 - 1999
Year 2000 concerns motivated many businesses to upgrade their hardware and software. I set up more Windows servers running Oracle and SQL Server databases and expanded networks with more PCs. Branch offices were connected with Wide Area Networks.

After Al Gore invented the internet I set up email and web servers. The Internet brought new security requirements. Now keeping business computers and networks running includes battling spam and viruses so people can not only do their jobs, but also stream music, watch videos and upate their Facebook status.

2000 -
The last decade has included server and network upgrades. Laptops and remote VPN access to corporate networks has grown. Email is not just on your PC, it is also on the phone in your pocket and on your iPad. Sales Orders can arrive by phone, fax, email, EDI and web site. Marketing can include Facebook and Twitter. (Wait, didn't we just block Facebook and Twitter to keep people from wasting time at work?) A web site is not enough, now marketing wants an app. UPS Worldship has become the defacto shipping program and needs to be linked to Sales Orders. Ship notices with tracking numbers are sent by email. Paper invoices and Purchase Orders are fading. Invoices and Purchase Orders emailed as PDF attachments are growing.

My Mission

Putting technology to work for people.

When you let me work with you, I become part of your team. I help you buy hardware, software and services, then I install and maintain them for you. Custom programming is available when it is the best option. Open source, free and low cost programs are not ruled out if they can help get the job done and stretch your budget.