Emma McDonald
Blackpool,Lancashire
Summary
Experienced Web Designer and Developer with 18 years of successfully running a self-employed digital services business, delivering professional websites and online solutions for small businesses across the UK. Skilled in designing and developing responsive, user-friendly websites that balance visual appeal with functionality and business objectives. Experienced in managing the entire project lifecycle, from client consultation and planning through to design, development, launch, and ongoing support. Strong commercial awareness, excellent client relationship management, and a proven ability to translate business requirements into effective digital solutions. A self-motivated and adaptable professional with a long track record of delivering high-quality work, solving technical challenges, and helping businesses establish and grow their online presence.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work history
Web Designer/Developer/Director
DESIGN & ONLINE PROMOTIONS LTD
Blackpool, Lancashire
2007.01 - 2025.09
- Updated job knowledge by tracking emerging internet technologies, keeping skills up-to-date.
- Utilised PHP to build server-side applications for faster load times.
- Followed Agile and Scrum methodologies in developing applications to meet business needs efficiently.
- Tested websites in various browsers and devices to ensure consistency.
- Ensured websites were accessible across multiple platforms and devices for improved reach.
- Integrated various APIs into websites for added functionality.
- Improved website efficiency with the use of JavaScript, HTML and CSS.
- Developed dynamic and interactive websites for enhanced user engagement.
- Solved cross-browser compatibility issues for a flawless browsing experience.
- Built reusable code libraries, saving time on future projects.
- Implemented debugging procedures to ensure optimal site performance.
- Established and promoted design guidelines, best practices and standards to maintain quality of work.
- Designed mobile-based features which attracted a larger audience base.
- Streamlined user experience by implementing responsive web design.
- Compiled back-end data for improved front-end functionality.
- Managed hosting environments including database administration as well as scaling applications to handle load changes ensuring smooth functioning of the website.
- Created visually appealing sites that met all design requirements to increase client satisfaction.
- Optimised applications for maximum speed and scalability, enhancing website performance.
- Collaborated with UX designers to implement designs into functional code, delivering seamless user experience.
- Coordinated with web designers to match visual design intent whilst maintaining high software quality.
- Developed and implemented architectures for web applications.
- Improved web development plans to achieve client requirements within assigned timeframes.
- Translated project requirements into forward-thinking visual designs.
- Used design expertise to create high-quality animations for diverse websites.
- Performed thorough testing and analysis to eliminate error and risk.
- Maintained excellent knowledge of emerging multimedia technologies and trends to meet client demand.
- Minimised operational downtime through comprehensive testing.
- Demonstrated expert coding knowledge of JavaScript, SQL and Python.
- Liaised with clients and designers to create robust, functional platforms.
- Led stand-ups and agile meetings to plan and deliver on project goals.
- Established project milestones and ensured all team members were well-prepared to meet deadlines.
- Designed graphics with Adobe Creative Cloud to achieve brand goals.
- Produced design renderings readily understood by technical and non-technical audiences.
- Flexed with changing specifications and technological developments to maintain conformance with specifications and schedule targets.
- Built site-specific interfaces for navigation, data management and e-commerce requirements.
- Utilised software libraries of reusable code to streamline design and reduce collaboration bottlenecks.
- Evaluated project specifications for technical feasibility, security risks and user experience concerns.
- Created innovative digital animations using Adobe.
- Assessed and implemented security measures for reliable network protection.
- Managed negotiations with clients to secure profitable contracts.
- Initiated business development activities and expanded client base.
Education
GCSEs -
Collegiate High School
Blackpool, LancashireSkills
- Cross-Browser compatibility testing
- WordPress expertise
- Web server administration
- JavaScript language
- Cross-Browser compatibility
- Ecommerce integration
- Mobile and app design
- CSS3 expertise
- Typography knowledge
- Back-End basics
- Graphic design capability
- WordPress platform knowledge
- Mobile-First design philosophy
- Accessibility standards compliance
- Database management
- Search Engine Optimisation
- Custom WordPress development
- Responsive Design
- Jquery
- Web analytics
- Payment gateway integration
- Mobile app development
- A/B testing
- HTML5 and CSS3
- Dreamweaver
- Content management systems
- Joomla
- Technical understanding
- Creative problem solving
- WordPress customisation
Timeline
Web Designer/Developer/Director
DESIGN & ONLINE PROMOTIONS LTD
2007.01 - 2025.09
GCSEs -
Collegiate High School