Applying tech skills to more than just a day at the office...

[The_Grudge]

I would consider myself to be a pretty technical guy. I'm trained as a computer programmer, I own an iPad, an iPhone, and I use a Windows PC at work. As a result, there isn't a whole lot I don't know about OS and Windows. I even have a fairly extensive knowledge of third party applications such as Evernote, Dropbox, and the suite of services Google has online (calendar, mail, documents) etc etc.

While I'm sure that impresses no one on this forum (especially the bit about the iPhone/iPad), I would definitely consider myself to be 100% more technical than anyone in my immediate surroundings, both at home and at work. I always seem to be the guy that gets called when "something isn't working".

Thing is, I'm getting a little tired of pouring all of my efforts into projects for "the man". I've setup data files, charts, graphs, custom software - all in an effort to make their lives easier and the response I usually get is "how do I open that program again?" or "where do I find ___?"

I desperately need a side project - something that will provide a little supplemental income. I've thought about developing an "app" for iPhone/iPad, but I realize the months of effort involved would result in a payout of maybe $10 when all is said and done.

I'm assuming most of you on this forum are also tech savvy. What kinds of side projects do you work on? Do you own your own businesses?

I'm just trying to get an idea on expanding my reach with the skills I have. I know I want to do something new but I'm not sure how best to apply my skills to something meaningful.