About Donald Cecil
My Journey
I started my web development journey in 1996 as a teenager, fascinated by the early internet and the possibility of creating interactive experiences on the web. What began as curiosity and fun has evolved into over 25 years of professional web development experience.
Philosophy
The web should be fast, intuitive, and respectful of users' time and privacy. I focus on building websites and applications that:
- Load quickly - No unnecessary bloat or heavy frameworks when simple solutions work better
- Work immediately - Users shouldn't need accounts, tutorials, or complicated setup processes
- Respect privacy - Process data locally when possible, minimize tracking, and be transparent about data use
- Function reliably - Clean, well-tested code that works consistently across devices and browsers
- Stay accessible - Inclusive design that works for users regardless of their abilities or devices
In an age of complex web applications and endless loading screens, I believe there's tremendous value in creating tools that simply work well without getting in the user's way.
Current Focus
Today, I'm focused on building privacy-respecting web applications that work entirely in the browser. I specialize in client-side processing techniques that keep user data secure while delivering powerful functionality. My recent projects emphasize local data processing, eliminating the need for server uploads and protecting user privacy.
Technical Expertise
Over the years, I've worked with a wide range of technologies and approaches to web development. I specialize in both custom-coded solutions and content management systems:
Custom Development: I build bespoke websites from scratch using modern JavaScript frameworks, progressive web applications, HTML5 Canvas API, WebAssembly, and client-side processing techniques. When you need something unique that doesn't fit into a template, I can create exactly what you envision.
WordPress Expertise: I have extensive experience with WordPress development, from theme customization to complex custom post types and advanced functionality. Whether you need a simple business site or a complex WordPress application, I can deliver efficient, maintainable solutions.
SEO Optimization: I have extensive SEO experience, ensuring websites are built with search engine optimization in mind from the ground up. This includes technical SEO implementation, site structure optimization, performance optimization for Core Web Vitals, and creating SEO-friendly code that helps sites rank well in search results.
My approach focuses on choosing the right tool for each project - sometimes that's a lightning-fast custom-coded site, other times it's a well-architected WordPress solution. I prioritize creating fast, efficient web applications that work consistently across devices and browsers while respecting user privacy and experience.
Location
I'm based in Encinitas, California, where I continue to develop innovative web solutions as an independent developer.