Programming

I've done work for various clients, from complete backends and modifying existing software to coding up a site from scratch. Through all of my clients over the years, I've had compliments on the speed at which I complete a project or solve an issue. It's strange to me, as it's just how I've always worked on things I do for myself. I guess that's a good thing.

So far, I know XHTML, PHP, CSS, JavaScript, and MySQL. I'm also learning other languages, like Ruby (and the Rails framework) and Python. I'm obsessive over every nook and cranny with my code. The end result is my work being done with crazily clean and semantic code.

Within these languages, I also know how to use various techniques, and I've been pushing them into every one of my projects. For example, with PHP, I've worked out a very strong structure that closely resembles the MVC design pattern. This means that things go where they should, without tons of tiny files scattered everywhere.

When it comes to JavaScript libraries, I much prefer to use jQuery. I also know how to use Protoype, script.aculo.us, and MooTools.

As for databases, I mainly know my way around MySQL. I'm sure SQLite and PostgreSQL are fairly similar, but I've never found the time to get my hands dirty with them. But, if you need it, I'm sure I'd end up learning it.

Design

This is the darker side of me. I admit, I've never officially gotten into design. I just can't stand staring at an image editor for hours on end. Because of that, I ended up developing a technique called “improvisational design”, wherein I do everything from a text editor and make changes and add ideas as I go along. It's much faster and simpler for me. Honestly, I think I end up with better designs than I'd end up with using an image editor.

My main and, admittedly, only strength is minimalism. I really enjoy playing with typography and paying attention to every detail I can. Because the designs are so simple, you really need to add detail somewhere to make it attractive. Of course, I have no degree in design, I've never taken courses, so I'm likely talking out my ass here.

What it all boils down to is this: if you like my designing methods, great. I don't have much room to budge from my style. I don't mean this to sound like I'm arrogant with my beliefs in design. It's more like “I completely suck at this area of expertise, you might want to find someone else if you don't like what you see”.