Front End Web Developer you say?
It's a tricky category, but I'm the in-between guy. I write valid, semantic HTML markup and CSS that will transform a static design into a working web page. Not quite the full blown graphic designer and not quite the hardcore programmer, however I do have a lot of experience working on both sides of the fence.
Modern web standards and page accessibility are being adopted at a quicker pace than ever before and it's one of the areas of web development that has seen the need for Front End Web Developers like myself. I have worked on various websites over the course of my career and have developed a wide array of skills and knowledge in this field.
I believe strongly in the use of progressive enhancement and using the more advanced features of CSS in the browsers that can support them. Although Internet Explorer 6 & 7 still need to be supported there is no reason why users of more standards compliant browsers can't receive a richer experience.
The sweet language of geeks
Working on such a variety of sites has exposed me to a few different web languages.
- XHTML (Advanced)
- CSS (Advanced)
- XML (Intermediate)
- XSL (Intermediate)
- Javascript & jQuery Framework
- PHP
As well as working with the above languages I have worked with Adobe Photoshop CS3 and Visual Studio 2005/2008.
My kingdom for a list
It's always easier to read lists, my key abilities are below:
- Expert knowledge in the basic tools of the trade - HTML & CSS
- Understanding of what web standards are and the best practices involved.
- Abilty to transform a static graphical design into a working web page.
- Enhancing the typography of a page using the sIFR technique.
- Use of semantic markup to ensure site content is accessible and Search Engine friendly.
- Using Expression Engine to provide a dynamic back-end to a site, allowing news or blog articles to be posted.
- Writing cross-browser code and aiming to use progressive enhancement wherever possible.
- Identifying usability issues and generally making life easier for site visitors.
- Using Adobe Photoshop to manipulate existing designs & graphics, or creating them when required.
- Experience with writing text content to deliver clear and concise information.
Location, Location..
I am currently based in Leigh-on sea, Essex (which if it helps to get your bearings, is next door to Southend). As well as being right next to a London based train line I also have my own transport for closer commutes.
About this site
All the graphics and code were created by me, and the site is powered on the wonderful Expression Engine, which is nice and easy to use.
As far as accessibility is concerned the site functions acceptably with images and/or CSS disabled as well as supporting several text size increases. I've attempted to provide a similar browsing experience in the more inferior Internet Explorer browsers, but you may notice the odd differences when compared to more modern and standards aware browsers.
