C. S. French

Carl French was born in Norwich, Norfolk, England. He graduated from King's College London University with an honours degree in Mathematics and Physics. Later he gained an MSc in Statistics for Brunel University and a post graduate diploma in teaching (for further and higher education) from Leeds University.

Out of his MSc he became involved in Computer Science research which led to him lecturing in Computer Science and eventually to the publication of his first book "Computer Science" followed by others in the same field. During his time as an academic Carl also became involved with the creation of a number of software products and also represented the UK on a number of specialist international committees. He also made a major contribution to a number of national projects developing the curriculum in Computer Science. His research and development activities led to Carl becoming a Chartered Engineer and to recognition as a Fellow of The British Computer Society (FBCS) and as a Fellow of The Institute of mathematics and its Applications (FIMA).

Carl eventually left the academic world, initially engaging in R & D projects in the City of London which led to Carl designing a number of advanced commercial computer systems mostly in financially related applications. After some years of systems development, project management and consultancy Carl became more heavily involved with business innovation and change projects, including business re-engineering, streamlining and process improvement. Carl set up a business consultancy based around his own expertise and over time, with others, developed a number of specialist business services around the central idea of productising and replicating expertise. Franchising and Licensing are specialist examples. Additionally, Carl continues to write and publish works as well as serving as a commissioning editor, writing coach and speaker.

Carl is married with two grown-up sons and lives in Hertfordshire where he plays an active role in the local business community.