Name: Judd M. Miller, 27
Title: Web site developer, Ninja-Web
Location: Carmel, California

1. What kind of independent contractor/freelancer are you?
I formed a sole proprietorship called Ninja-Web, which uses databases and Allaire's ColdFusion toolset to develop data-driven Web sites and browser-based software. I've been in the Web business for almost six years, and I love the magic that I can work with databases and dynamic content.

2. What pushed you to go solo?
First of all, I love technology, but I'm not a cultist. Paper and pen often make for fine technology solutions. But this philosophy often got me into trouble with my employers. My reluctance was perceived as a lack of team spirit. Being independent enables me to implement solutions that I believe to be truly useful and advantageous for my clients. Web development comprises only one third of my "career." The other two thirds are screenwriting and volunteer fire fighting. Being independent gives me the time and scheduling flexibility to pursue these other interests and make my best, well-rounded contribution to society.

3. At what point did you realize that you could actually make a living on your own?
Until I got my marketing effort organized, I decided to simply announce my availability on some Web bulletin boards. Almost immediately I received three requests for proposals, one of which has turned out to be my most profitable contract to date. When that happened, I knew I had nothing to worry about; the demand was clearly there.

4. What's the biggest mistake you've made to date?
Maintaining self-discipline has been my biggest challenge. The corporate regimen structures your workday for you. But when every day is freely yours, it's easy to think you have all the time in the world to get the work done, so why not go down to the beach or catch a matinee? While I've met my declared deadlines, I haven't delivered other things as quickly as I could have. The result: Not only do I court client frustration but it slows my company's growth, because I'm not moving forward with additional (and more profitable) projects. Being a creative person who likes to free-form his schedule and pursue multiple disciplines, I have to remember who it is I'm really serving and keep their needs at the forefront.

5. Tell us about your most memorable contract.
My most memorable contract is one I have currently with the Foxman Group. These guys have built a sophisticated Web-site-visitor tracking product and are ace programmers. They hired me to build a plug-in module for it and to do some minor database conversion. When I got the bid, I had to watch a six-hour videotape just to learn my way around their system. I have learned as much from them as I've given. It's the most interesting and challenging contract I've had.

6. What has working solo meant to you personally?
I worry less about being successful, and more about being happy. Going solo was an assertion of my values and dreams, so life is slower, more interesting and more genuine. I used to fantasize about winning the lottery and having complete freedom. I don't fantasize anymore. I like where I live, how I spend my time, what I'm contributing. At 27, I consider that a triumph. Well, I might trade in my old Volvo.