Hi, I'm Rory Stone
I started Traditionally Different Technology because I saw too many small businesses getting burned by IT companies that treated them like case numbers instead of people.
After over 20 years working in tech - from enterprise networking at Black Hills Energy to web development and app publishing - I realized that what small businesses really need isn't just technical expertise. They need someone who actually listens, explains things in plain English, and shows up when it matters.
That's what Trad Diff is about. When you work with me, you get a direct line to someone who knows your systems, understands your business, and genuinely cares about keeping you running. No help-desk queues, no escalation mazes, no corporate runaround.
Based in Rapid City, I serve businesses throughout the Black Hills region with on-site support, and provide remote assistance to clients across the country. Whether you need help with a crashed computer, a new website, or a complete network overhaul, I'm here to help.
What I Stand For
These aren't just buzzwords. They're the principles that guide every interaction.
Personal Service
You'll work directly with me - not a rotating cast of support techs who don't know your setup. One relationship, one contact, consistent service.
Honest Advice
I'll tell you what you actually need - not what makes me the most money. Sometimes that means recommending a $50 fix instead of a $5,000 upgrade.
Plain English
Tech jargon helps no one. I explain what's happening, why it matters, and what your options are - in terms that make sense.
Fair Pricing
Transparent rates, no surprise bills, no unnecessary upsells. You know what you're paying for and why.
Local Commitment
Rapid City is home. I'm invested in this community and the businesses that make it thrive. When local businesses succeed, the community succeeds.
Long-Term Thinking
Quick fixes are fine for emergencies, but real IT support means building systems that work reliably for years, not just today.
Technology That Respects Your Attention
The name "Traditionally Different" has always meant choosing the right tool over the trendy one. As attention has become one of your most valuable resources — and one of the most targeted by app designers and platform algorithms — that philosophy matters more than ever.
I help Rapid City businesses build technology habits that respect their staff's focus, their clients' time, and their own sanity. That means auditing tools for what they actually deliver, reducing digital noise, and creating a tech etiquette policy that works in the real world. Intentional technology for small business isn't a trend — it's just good management.
Technical Expertise
I bring deep experience across a range of technologies, with particular strength in areas that matter most to small businesses.
Certifications
CompTIA A+ Certified
Industry-standard IT support credential covering hardware, networking, operating systems, and security. The baseline behind 20+ years of hands-on troubleshooting.
Verify · Code 412ddcf4cd234945974fe08e515fa05a
CompTIA Tech+ Certified
Foundational IT certification (FC0-U71) covering computing concepts, infrastructure, applications, software development, databases, and cybersecurity fundamentals — the conceptual layer beneath A+.
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Anthropic Claude Partner Network Member
Claude setup, training, and custom prompts. I use AI to run my own business daily — and I'll show your team how to do the same.
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Mac & Windows Support
Equally comfortable in both ecosystems. Many small businesses run mixed environments - I handle both.
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Web Development
Modern, fast, mobile-friendly websites. From simple business sites to more complex web applications.
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Cloud & SaaS
Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, and other cloud tools. Setup, migration, and ongoing support.
Industries I Serve
- Restaurants & Hospitality
- Wellness Practitioners
- Professional Services
- Retail & E-commerce
- Creative Agencies
- Small Manufacturing
Don't see your industry? Let's talk - I work with businesses of all types.
Why "Traditionally Different"?
The name reflects how I approach IT support. I believe in traditional values - personal relationships, honest advice, standing behind my work - applied to modern technology.
In an industry that's increasingly impersonal and corporate, I'm doing things differently. Not different for the sake of it, but different because it's better for you. When you call, you get a person who knows your name and your systems. When something breaks, I fix it and explain why. When you need advice, you get an honest opinion - even if it means less work for me.
That's traditionally different.
Ready to Work Together?
Let's have a conversation about your IT needs. No pressure, no sales pitch - just a friendly chat to see if I'm a good fit.