Practical systems and automation for small organizations.
Hi, I’m Umair Zaidi, a PhD student in Biomedical Informatics at OHSU. Outside of research, I work with local organizations to improve their tech stack, streamline operations, and build custom tools when off-the-shelf software isn’t enough.
Common problems I help solve
Many small teams run on a patchwork of spreadsheets, inbox threads, and manual routines. It works until it doesn’t. I help simplify the system so work moves faster, with fewer errors.
Too much copy and paste
The same information gets re-entered across forms, spreadsheets, and tools. That wastes time and causes mistakes.
Fragile spreadsheets
A spreadsheet runs something critical, but it breaks, drifts, or becomes impossible to maintain.
No clear reporting
You have data in multiple places, but getting a clean answer takes an afternoon and a lot of manual work.
Processes live in people’s heads
Things “work” because one person knows the steps. When they’re out, everything slows down.
Tools don’t talk to each other
Your systems are disconnected, so updates and follow-ups happen manually instead of automatically.
You’ve outgrown “off the shelf”
You’re using good tools, but the last 20 percent requires something tailored to your workflow.
What I do
I start by understanding how your team actually works, then design the simplest solution that makes day-to-day operations smoother. Sometimes that’s configuration and integrations. Sometimes it’s a small custom tool.
Workflow and process redesign
StrategyMap your current process, remove bottlenecks, clarify ownership, and design a workflow your team can follow consistently.
Automation and integrations
Quick winsConnect the tools you already use so data flows automatically. Reduce repetitive work like copying, emailing, and manual updates.
Custom internal tools
BuildLightweight apps and dashboards tailored to your team, such as intake systems, scheduling helpers, inventory tools, or admin panels.
Data cleanup and reporting
ClarityClean and standardize data, remove duplicates, and create reporting that answers real business questions without manual effort.
How projects usually work
- 1. Quick discovery
We walk through your workflow and define the highest-impact fix.
- 2. Build sprint
I implement the solution and share progress early and often.
- 3. Handoff
Documentation, training, and lightweight support if you want it.
Want to make your systems simpler?
If you tell me what’s slowing your team down, I’ll suggest the simplest next step. Sometimes that’s a quick automation. Sometimes it’s a small internal tool. Either way, you’ll leave with clarity.