Robert Alan

Over eight years, I have pursued the best practices in web design while also reaching into the realms of graphic and logo identity design, photography and music. I am skilled in all aspects of the creative process, from client needs gathering, delivery and beyond.

From the moment I created my first table-based website in 2000, I was hooked. Since then, I've bootstrapped my way to standards-based design with XHTML and CSS. There is nothing I love more than the feeling of working an original, hand-crafted Photoshop comp into fresh, validated code.

I learn best by doing. I have a hand in everything from music to hiking, photography to cooking, socializing and savoring hoppy draughts, adoring and spending time with my wife of four years, Amy–and of course, design (aka, spending a LOT of time staring into light-emmitting diodes).

No matter the project, I'm constantly stimulated to think differently, problem-solve and to be perceptive of others' needs - clients or coworkers. An ENTJ personality type, I was born to lead and contribute greatly to a community and culture. It's everything that I strive for and am fulfilled in doing.

March 2010 — Present, City of Portland

Portland, OR

As a designer assigned to the city's website redesign project and general web needs, it's my job to help give design direction and feedback to the teams involved and initiate the design. I pull together consultant reports, feedback from bureaus and other internal clients and work with the Bureau of Technology Services web and GIS team to help make sure that the next iteration of the City of Portland's website meets the needs of the citizens and the city employees that the it serves.

February 2006 — February 2010, SpinWeb

Indianapolis, IN

October 2008 – February 2010: As creative director, I monitor and colaborate for our creative team’s optimum output (I serve as the resident standards expert) and guide clients through the discovery and design phases. Meanwhile, I also continue to create original designs for client websites as well as our internal marketing.

February 2006 – October 2008: As a designer, I led a company-wide migration from tables to valid markup and CSS. I created tailored discovery documents for website requirements — including wireframes, sitemaps and process flows. I worked with developers to create dynamic and stunning web experiences and expanded my understanding and ability to alter PHP and Javascript.

August 2004 — February 2006, WIPB-TV - PBS Affiliate

Indianapolis, IN

As Marketing/Promotions Assistant & web Coordinator I managed the web presence of both WIPB and IPR stations, including the creation of custom graphics and content daily, added local information to all national video promotions daily using Pro software, supervised and assigned tasks to a student assistant and created original video promotions for local events. I also worked to overhaul an extremely outdated on-air graphics package and website as well as assisted in outreach and fundraising campaigns.

March 2001 — Present, Rob Alan Design

Indianapolis, IN

As a freelancer with a diverse client base in business, personal and art realms, I have created original and acclaimed materials — including packaging, apparel, identities, stationery, photography and web design. I have hosted and administered over 40 accounts, created a custom content management system especially for musicians, and co-created a successful Webzine from scratch.

Creative:

Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Dreamweaver, Coda, Final Cut Pro, Aperture

Systematic:

Mac & Windows platforms, Nikon Cameras & Lenses

Technical:

(X)HTML, CSS, able to modify PHP & Javascript and wade through ASP

Productivity:

Google Apps, iWork, MS Office, Basecamp, Things App, Quicksilver, GrabUp, TextExpander

Philosophy:

GTD, Inbox Zero, ROWE

Matt Conner - Business Partner, Stereo Subversion

"Rob's design work is marked by the fantastic mix of dynamism, efficiency and beauty. I would never want to work with any other designer."

Joshua Brammer - VP of Operations, SpinWeb

"Rob is a truly creative problem solver. His mix of artist and critical thinker is simply amazing. He has an understanding of the underlying frameworks of technology, as well as an understanding how people will (or won't) use it! A master of his craft."

Adam Weber, Client

"Rob has done all kinds of wonderful graphic work for me. He designed my website and CD as well as all of my promotional tools (posters, fliers, shirts, etc) . His creativity gave me instant credibility in new markets. He is great to work with and relationship with his clients is second to none!"

Joshua Davey - Designer/Developer

"Rob's talents never cease to amaze. I worked with Rob on several web design projects a few years ago. He's a smart, creative designer that gives great attention to detail, and he won't settle for 'just okay'."

Betsy Walker - Client

"There are a number of reasons why I have chosen to work with Rob Alan Design... he is interested in me as a person and an artist, and he wants to see me succeed."

Michael Reynolds - President/CEO, SpinWeb

"Rob is a thoughtful, intelligent, and highly creative individual. His attention to detail and strong desire to balance art with end-user results has dramatically strengthened our team. Rob has a certain depth of understanding and ability to deliver that few others can match."

Additional references provided upon request.