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Sarah Kelsey

About Me

I'm a passionate UI/UX designer and software engineer with 20+ years of experience crafting user-centered digital solutions. I blend expertise in human-centered design with a strong command of front-end and back-end technologies (including Adobe XD, Sketch, Figma, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, React, Node.js, and PHP) to create intuitive and engaging experiences. As a freelance developer and designer, I've helped businesses establish a strong online presence with impactful websites and branding. In previous roles, I led the design and development of high-quality products for large companies, leveraging user research and design thinking to achieve measurable improvements in user engagement. I'm dedicated to creating digital experiences that delight users and drive business success.

Hiring a UI/UX designer and developer is an investment in the success of your digital products. With so many options available, it's crucial to choose someone who brings the right mix of experience, skills, and dedication to the table. Based on our conversations, I'm confident that I possess the qualities that make me a valuable asset to any team or project.

First and foremost, I offer over two decades of experience in the field. This extensive background has allowed me to develop a deep understanding of UI/UX principles, software development best practices, and the ever-evolving digital landscape. I've witnessed firsthand the trends that have come and gone, and I've learned to adapt and refine my approach to consistently deliver exceptional results. This means I can hit the ground running on your project, providing informed insights and making efficient use of time and resources.

What truly sets me apart is my unique blend of design and development skills. I'm not just a designer who hands off static mockups; I'm also a developer who can bring those designs to life. This comprehensive perspective allows me to consider both the aesthetics and the functionality of a digital product from the very beginning. It also streamlines the workflow, eliminating communication gaps and ensuring a seamless transition from design to development. Whether you need a stunning website, a user-friendly mobile app, or a complex web application, I have the skills to handle the project from concept to completion.

At the core of my approach is a strong commitment to human-centered design. I believe that technology should serve people, not the other way around. This philosophy guides every decision I make, from conducting thorough user research to creating intuitive navigation and ensuring accessibility for all. By prioritizing the needs and experiences of users, I create digital products that are not only visually appealing but also effective, enjoyable, and truly meet the needs of your target audience.

My ability to deliver results is evident in my track record. I've led successful design and development projects for large companies, collaborating with cross-functional teams to achieve measurable improvements in user engagement and satisfaction. I've also successfully managed my own freelance business, demonstrating my entrepreneurial spirit and ability to handle diverse projects and client relationships. This experience has equipped me with the skills to navigate complex challenges, meet deadlines, and exceed expectations.

Beyond my technical skills and experience, I bring a genuine passion and drive to every project I undertake. I'm genuinely excited about creating innovative solutions that solve real-world problems and enhance people's lives. This enthusiasm translates into dedication, attention to detail, and a commitment to delivering high-quality work that I can be proud of.

Finally, effective communication is essential for any successful project. Throughout our conversations, I've demonstrated my ability to communicate clearly, listen attentively, and provide thoughtful responses. I'm confident that I can maintain open and collaborative communication with you, ensuring that your vision is understood and your goals are met.

In conclusion, I offer a unique combination of experience, versatility, user-centricity, and a proven track record. I'm passionate about creating digital experiences that delight users and drive business success. If you're looking for a dedicated and skilled UI/UX designer and developer to bring your vision to life, I'm confident that I'm the right person for the job.

Design

It is about more than just aesthetics; it's about solving real problems for real people. My approach is deeply rooted in human-centered design principles, which I further developed through certifications in Human-Centered Design and Enterprise Design Thinking. This allows me to craft user-focused solutions that are not only visually appealing but also effective and enjoyable to use.

Research

I believe in a human-centered approach to design, where understanding the user is paramount. This means deeply considering their needs, motivations, and the context in which they'll interact with a product or service. By empathizing with their experiences, I can de  sign intuitive and effective solutions that seamlessly integrate into their daily lives, improving their overall experience.

Illustration

In UI design, illustrations play a crucial role that goes beyond mere decoration. They become powerful tools for visual communication, capable of clarifying complex concepts, enhancing user engagement, and creating memorable experiences. Whether it's a simple icon or a detailed illustration, these visuals can guide users, evoke emotions, and ultimately contribute to a more intuitive and enjoyable interface.

Usability and Compliance

Usability is a core principle in UX design, ensuring that products and services are not only functional but also easy and enjoyable to use. It's about minimizing friction in the user experience, allowing people to effortlessly achieve their goals. This involves considering factors like efficiency, learnability, and user satisfaction, ultimately leading to more effective and engaging designs.

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I've had the pleasure of mentoring Sarah since early 2021. Not only is she highly intelligent, but she also has a growth mindset, is incredibly creative, and likes to get things done. The combination of all of these traits in one person is really hard to come by. She's a lifelong learner who not only learns but actively applies what she learns to make herself and those around her better.

David Egts

Field CTO, Public Sector

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I collaborated with Sarah on a project at Walmart. Sarah and the team were looking to build an in-house application because the current product was insufficient. She conducted contextual inquiries to understand users’ needs and identify tasks needing to be accomplished. We worked together on generating insights and understanding user needs. She is eager and always willing to learn something new. She has the drive and moves any project forward with great enthusiasm.

Sheila Hurley

Design Researcher, Walmart

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Sarah is a great collaborator and communicator. I had the privilege of working with Sarah on a major project and her level of dedication and involvement was unmatched. Her design skill and her eye for detail was nothing short of exemplary. I highly recommend Sarah as she would be a valuable asset to any team.

Derek Hanjora

Lead UX/UI Designer

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Sarah is a powerhouse with an extensive skillset that is valuable for a wide variety of positions. In my time working alongside her, I experienced her expertise in the areas of UI and UX design, creative direction, client relations, and web accessibility and compliance. From the moment our career paths diverged, not a day has passed that I haven’t found myself referencing knowledge she shared with me during that period.

Jessica Cornwall

SEM Digital Marketing Manager

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I had the pleasure of collaborating with Sarah Kelsey on a significant website redesign project for the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Sarah’s dedication to her craft is truly remarkable, and it shines through in the exceptional quality of her work. She is not only adept at creating innovative and aesthetically pleasing designs using Figma but also excels in integrating crucial elements such as Section 508 accessibility standards and the United States Web Design System (USWDS) to meet branding and client-specific requirements.

Jason Luttrell

Lead Developer & IT Manager (Consultant)