Field notes from
the studio.
Essays on applied AI, production software, and building defensible products. Written by the people shipping them.
Why Small Businesses Need AI-Native Websites in 2026
AI is no longer a marketing buzzword for small business sites — it is the difference between getting found and getting skipped. Here is what changed, and why bolt-on AI features are not enough anymore.
Beating the ATS: How AI Resume Optimization Actually Works
Applicant tracking systems reject the majority of resumes before a human ever sees them. Here is what those filters are looking for, and how AI-driven optimization tips the odds back in the candidate's favor.
Never Miss a Service Call Again: AI Voicemail for Operators
For plumbers, HVAC techs, and medical practices, a missed call is a lost customer. AI voicemail is changing the math — transcription, routing, and CRM integration that used to require a full call center.
Local SEO for Trades: What Plumbers and Electricians Need in 2026
Google's local pack is where home service businesses win or lose. Here is a practical playbook for ranking in your city — and the AI tools that make it repeatable.
Studio vs Agency: Why Iron Gate Builds Products Instead
The agency model optimizes for billable hours. The studio model optimizes for shipped software. Here is why Iron Gate chose the studio path — and what that means for how we take on work.