Independent Atlassian expert
A strategist who works in the configuration.
I’m Fabian van den Barselaar, the independent consultant behind Tooling Tactics. With a deep background in project management and business analysis, I don’t just leave an advisory report on your desk. I get into the configuration, establish seamless API connections, and ensure the software actively streamlines your workflows. That is the core of Tooling Tactics: strategic oversight backed by hands-on execution.
For the past 14 years, I’ve optimized Atlassian ecosystems from the inside out—starting as a product owner, then in a PMO, and operating independently since 2019. I manage environments for dynamic startups up to large-scale enterprises of over 3,000 users. Working primarily in regulated sectors like healthcare, automotive, and enterprise IT across Europe, I operate remote by default, and hands-on with your team when that is what moves the needle.
How I work
The principles that drive every successful engagement.
I only take on projects where I can deliver genuine value. These core principles ensure I work with you transparently, effectively, and with a focus on real outcomes.
Alongside, not above
I work embedded within your organization. I partner directly with your team to build solutions together and share knowledge, rather than just dictating strategy from a monthly steering committee. You and I get the job done as equals.
Independent
No reseller margin, no Marketplace incentive, no partner kickback. If an app or configuration is wrong for your business, I will directly say so.
Decisions over documents
Every phase ends in a tactical decision that someone actually owns. Documentation and reports are a side effect of the work, never the main deliverable.
No lock-in
Every engagement ends with clear documentation and named owners. If you keep me on, it is through a flexible contract you can cancel—not because nobody else knows how your stack works.
The right fit
If a specific challenge falls outside my core expertise, I won’t waste your time. I will be completely upfront and actively leverage my network to connect you with the exact people who can execute it flawlessly.
Things I do not do
Clear boundaries to respect your time and ensure I am the right fit.
Licence resale and procurement
Your Atlassian partner handles this better. I leave licensing to them so my advisory remains 100% independent and unbiased.
Staffing a team for you
I am an independent expert, not a staffing agency. If your project requires a full team of consultants, a larger agency is a better fit.
Tool-agnostic “digital transformation”
Atlassian is the core of my expertise. Other tools are either sources to migrate from or endpoints to connect to—not platforms I advise on.
Fixed-price migrations sight unseen
I don’t quote migrations before assessing your current setup. Anyone who does is simply guessing with your budget.
Contact
Or just email hello@toolingtactics.eu. It reaches the same inbox.
I answer my own email. There is nobody else here to forward it to.