Essays
All articles
Thoughts on software, productivity, and the slow work of figuring out how to live well.
What would make Nova Scotia more prosperous?
Seven priorities for Nova Scotia: business investment, customers, new industries, talent, education, and the homes and infrastructure growth needs.
Is rooftop solar worth it in Nova Scotia in 2026?
A recent Nova Scotia solar quote shows what a home system costs. See payback under current NS Power rates and compare the return with investing the cash.
Where Nova Scotia's ocean opportunity lies
Nova Scotia can sell ocean technology worldwide. Research, paying customers and lessons from other ocean economies show where we should invest next.
Big business and competition in Atlantic Canada
Atlantic Canada needs firms that invest and innovate. Research on family control, suppliers and competition suggests how to help more businesses grow.
Nova Scotia's Lost Century: a review
Ian Thompson makes a welcome case for Nova Scotia's ambition. His paddling chapter also shows what I wanted more of: an explanation of how success develops.
What would a good data centre look like in Nova Scotia?
Nova Scotia should compete for major data-centre investment. The public's concerns can help us negotiate better terms on power, water and local benefits.
Lunenburg needs to make room for more people
Council says Lunenburg needs housing. The Town now needs to choose where it wants growth and do the work required to move suitable projects forward.
How to Learn Anything Faster: Build Before You Feel Ready
The learning loop that has worked best for me: get the basics, build something real, retrieve what you know, get feedback, and repeat.
What Lunenburg's UNESCO boundaries actually mean for housing
Old Town, the UNESCO buffer, the local heritage district, and its Transition Area have different rules. None is a town-wide ban on housing.
What kind of housing co-op could work in Lunenburg?
A rental co-op could work in Lunenburg, but only with experienced development help, a realistic site, and public funding. Mahone Bay shows what the early work looks like.
Lunenburg's $1.1 million housing award: what has changed so far?
Lunenburg's Housing Accelerator Fund agreement pays for reforms and incentives. The Town now needs a public scorecard connecting those changes to permits, starts, completed homes, and affordability.
How should Lunenburg pay for the work ahead?
Lunenburg has major infrastructure work ahead. Residents need a clear view of how taxes, rates, reserves, debt, grants, and project timing fit together.