How I work
My approach to web development is based on existing systems and concrete needs. The work is not about rebuilding everything, but about understanding the system, improving it where it makes sense, and extending it with respect for code and architecture.
Analysis
Good analysis starts with gaining clarity before making changes. I begin by reviewing the existing solution to understand how the system is structured, where complexity lies,
and which constraints already exist.
This includes code, architecture, performance, and earlier technical decisions. The goal is to make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary rewrites, building on a solid foundation.
Optimization
Optimisation focuses on strengthening the existing technical foundation. This may involve speed, stability, code structure, or how the system is maintained and operated.
The emphasis is on targeted improvements rather than rewrite-heavy changes. Small, thoughtful adjustments often deliver significant practical and technical benefits.
Development
Development is about building on what already works. New functionality is implemented within the existing system, keeping the solution coherent and maintainable over time.
This can include backend logic, integrations, APIs, or extensions to CMS- or framework-based solutions. The aim is stable, long-term development rather than quick fixes.
Tools I use
- PhpStorm: Primary development environment for writing clean, structured, and maintainable PHP code.
- GitHub: Managing version control and collaboration, including code reviews, issue tracking, and project organization.
- GitHub Copilot: AI-powered code assistant that helps accelerate repetitive tasks and maintain consistent coding standards.
- ChatGPT: Supporting research, brainstorming, drafting, and problem-solving across development and content workflows.
- Cloudflare: Providing security, performance optimization, and CDN delivery to keep websites fast and protected.
- Slack: Facilitating fast, structured communication with clients, teams, and collaborators.
- Postman: Testing and debugging APIs and external integrations to ensure reliable data exchange.
- Composer: Managing PHP dependencies to maintain clean, scalable, and maintainable codebases.
- Npm: Managing frontend dependencies and build tooling for modern web projects, including asset compilation and production-ready builds.
- DataGrip: Managing and querying databases across MySQL, PostgreSQL, MariaDB, SQLite, and related systems.
- 1Password: Securely managing credentials, API keys, and client access details.
- Hemingway Editor: Improving clarity and readability in website content, documentation, and written communication
- WAVE by WebAIM: Testing accessibility compliance and identifying usability issues across web interfaces.
- Schema.org: Structuring content with schema markup to improve search engine understanding and SEO visibility.