Michael started in IT consulting in 2012 working with on-prem systems for Fortune 500 companies. Then, starting in 2015, Michael moved to Portland from Minneapolis and has worked full time implementing Salesforce.
Throughout his career he has seen projects of all sizes go well–and some not go so well.
Over time, Michael began recognizing certain themes that run through successful projects. Surprisingly, one of these themes was work/life balance. The most successful and impactful projects Michael has completed have not required work after 5pm (except for deployments 🙂).
During the pandemic In 2021, Michael started Artichoke Consulting to implement Salesforce for companies in the Pacific Northwest, leveraging these strategies that work to consistently build quality, foundational IT systems.
IT–when done right–unlocks long-term productivity for organizations. When done wrong, it can set companies back years. Artichoke works to do it right.
Why do you like working with the Artichoke team and clients?
The Artichoke team brings an array of experience, all aimed to make projects successful. The team includes experts on Salesforce, end user enablement and adoption, and project and program management. Our client teams all have different strengths as well. When we work as a team the whole really is greater than the sum of its parts, and my favorite part of this work is bringing all of these perspectives together.
What are your favorite parts of being a Salesforce consultant?
I enjoy the variety of the work and getting to meet people in all sorts of industries. No day is the same. Through consulting, I have been able to get involved with PIE, the Portland Business Alliance, and the Oregon Small Business Development Center. I helped organize Forcelandia, worked with great client teams and other Salesforce partners. The ecosystem is full of great people.
I have also spoken at several conferences, and run the First Friday: Change Management in the Salesforce Ecosystem (you’re invited, sign-up here!) group where we discuss change and people-related challenges on our projects.
What is your favorite part of working on implementation projects?
I like trying new project strategies, seeing what works and what doesn’t, and building from there. For me, this is the heart of Artichoke. I get to work with people who bring new ideas to the table, and I help ensure the ideas get put into practice.
Thanks for reading more about Artichoke! Please submit the Contact Us form to connect and see if we are a good partner for your business, and connect with Michael on LinkedIn here.
Here is a link to a profile on Michael from our partners at 10k!
