After graduate school I spent a decade as a core Java developer. It was lucrative but unsatisfying work. The Great Recession gave me the opportunity to re-evaluate my career. I love working with small businesses and individuals, as part of a team or individually. The diversity of tasks keeps me engaged, and the pride clients feel when they see their new site go live keeps me motivated.
As a graduate student, I studied human computer interaction (HCI). We held to a tenet most computer scienctists rejected: it’s not the user’s fault. The techniques I learned for developing and testing interfaces and information design have translated directly to my web development work. They make me unusual among programmers. Today, most people interested in the user experience go into design.
For much of my career, “web development” encompassed design services, SEO, accessibility, and sometimes even printed work. Each of these areas is a specialty today, but I bring experience to my smaller clients who can’t afford a team, and work well with related professionals due to my familiarity with their fields. Being well-rounded enables me to provide direct services beyond my core development focus.
Other Interests
Publishing
In 2009, when I discovered that ebooks are just extremely simple web sites, I founded Litsam, Inc. a micro-press. Litsam publishes an eclectic assortment of books sharing one essential commonality: every title meets my criteria for “literature”. I will occasionally consult on ebook and print (InDesign) projects for clients who would like to self-publish, or are having technical issues with their publisher.
Photography
I have a number of photography credits in Motorcyclist magazine, but I do not hire out as a social event or portrait photographer. I do maintain a large library of images that I’ve leveraged for a number of websites and book designs, and I occasionally do location or action photography for my own projects. For headshots and other personal photography, I enthusiastically recommend Sindea Kirk of SK Artistry.
Graphic Design
Over the years I have had clients needing a new logo, matching business cards, or advertising. Although these days I stick primarily to electronic work, my experience in print projects helps me both to design effective materials that integrate well, and to work with materials directly provided by designers. I collaborate with, and confidently recommend, Asbury Design for your design and marketing projects.
Collaborating
I stopped believing in “job security” in 2009 and subsequently strove to accomplish a work-life balance that includes terrific adventures. That plan has come together nicely, so you can count on me remaining available for long-term site support. My life is arranged around its joys: photography, cooking, family, and the creation of beautiful information design. I can’t imagine why I’d want to change that now.
My career supports my dreams. Your website should support yours.