At Strategic Connection, we’re fortunate to have incredible talent driving our projects forward. Today, we’re excited to spotlight our lead web developer, Francis Jan, who brings unmatched expertise and passion to the team. From navigating WordPress challenges to embracing the latest tools, Francis offers a glimpse into his day-to-day work and shares invaluable advice for aspiring developers.
Francis is always busy with impactful projects. “Right now, I’m focused on converting Strategic Connection’s website templates from HTML to WordPress,” he explains. This shift allows us to offer more dynamic and scalable solutions to clients.
Beyond that, Francis plays a vital role in website maintenance. “I handle tasks like fixing broken links, adding or removing elements, and uploading blog posts created by our creative team,” he adds.
Tip: Prioritize scalable platforms like WordPress for long-term growth and ensure regular website maintenance to keep everything running smoothly.
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When it comes to web development, Francis’s toolkit is comprehensive. “I work primarily with WordPress, but I also use Wix, Squarespace, Shopify, and HTML/CSS/JavaScript,” he says. For WordPress, Francis leans on the Astra theme and Elementor editor, enhancing it with plugins like Royal Elementor, Essential Addons, and Premium Addons.
“I also incorporate custom CSS and JavaScript to add animations and functionality not available through Elementor,” Francis notes.
Tip: Use versatile tools and plugins to unlock the full potential of your platform while adding custom functionality to stand out.
Like any developer, Francis faces his share of challenges. “The toughest part of my job is dealing with plugin conflicts and customization limitations in WordPress,” he admits.
His solution? A methodical approach. “I always test new plugins in a staging environment before deploying them live. I also prioritize well-maintained plugins with strong community support,” Francis explains.
Tip: Test plugins thoroughly before implementation to avoid conflicts, and stick to reliable options backed by strong developer support.
Working alongside a talented team is one of Francis’s favorite aspects of his role. “I love working on diverse projects and collaborating with an amazing team,” he shares. “Having a senior developer as a mentor has been incredibly helpful for improving my skills.”
Communication is key to successful collaboration. “I start by greeting my team members and asking for the materials I need. If I ever get stuck, my teammates are always ready to help,” Francis says.
Tip: Build a supportive team environment where communication flows freely to maximize efficiency and creativity.
Francis emphasizes the importance of mastering the basics. “A solid foundation in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and WordPress is critical,” he says. He also highlights the need for strong problem-solving skills to address technical challenges.
Beyond technical expertise, Francis believes in staying updated. “Continuous learning is vital for delivering high-quality, user-friendly websites,” he explains.
Tip: Invest time in building your foundational knowledge while staying current with trends and tools to remain competitive in the industry.
Reflecting on his recent work, Francis highlights a standout project. “One project I’m really proud of is the rebuild of Wendy Kleiner’s website. I refined the color scheme and highlighted the client’s images, resulting in a clean, minimalist, and visually appealing site,” he shares.
Tip: Pay attention to visual details and client branding to create websites that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
In a constantly evolving field, staying informed is crucial. “I subscribe to newsletters, read blogs like WPBeginner and Torque, and participate in WordPress/Elementor forums and communities,” Francis says. “I also watch YouTube videos to learn about the latest tools and techniques.”
Tip: Engage with educational resources and communities to keep up with the latest advancements in web development.
Francis’s parting advice is simple yet impactful. “Focus on the fundamentals—HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Learn UI/UX principles and responsive layouts. Explore platforms like WordPress, Squarespace, Wix, and Shopify,” he says.
And above all, he stresses the importance of communication and curiosity. “Strong communication skills are essential, and never stop learning. Stay curious and up-to-date with trends to remain competitive,” he concludes.
Francis Jan’s dedication and expertise make him an invaluable asset to Strategic Connection. His insights and experiences serve as inspiration for aspiring developers and seasoned professionals alike. Stay tuned for more highlights from our talented team!