ProgrammingI primarily develop with PHP, MySql, Flash (Actionscript), Java, and XML. My programming work focuses on development of learning objects, small Web sites, and Web/database applications. My clients are usually non-profit, education, and research organizations, artists, and small businesses. My products tend to be targeted components, such as interactive tools, Web/database lookups and inventories, textbook resource sites, online surveys, dynamic reports, etc. I also develop small, general-purpose utility applications for the broad market. I am especially interested in ways that institutions and offices can use the Web to improve efficiency. I believe that the first step in devloping requirements for any new service is to clearly identify each primary audience. Once the primary audiences have been identified, the next step is to characterize and list their needs and expectations, and to determine common needs among different audience groups. And then it is important to identify and communicate with related services and service providers in order to facilitate effective information sharing and cooperation (for example arts institutions who agree on common data standards can more easily exchange artist and art gallery references to the benefit of all). The design of the Web site, application, database, or XML schema should fall out of these requirements. What I like about the Web is the way that it can actually foster good relationships and improved processes and procedures. |
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Mike O'Kane |