About.

Ben O'Connor

I'm a web developer, web designer and app developer based in Scarborough, North Yorkshire, with over 15 years of experience building websites, applications and digital products. I specialise in modern JavaScript frameworks like Nuxt.js, Vue 3 and React, along with backend solutions such as Laravel and MySQL. I work with TypeScript as standard and use Tailwind CSS, Pinia, Vitest and Playwright across most of my projects. Throughout my career I've designed, prototyped and delivered applications that have gone into production across both business and commercial sectors.

At Mainline Menswear I've been involved in the transformation of their digital platforms, working across web development using React, Next.js, Nuxt, Tailwind and Bulma CSS, mobile development with Swift and Kotlin, and backend and API development using Laravel, PHP and MySQL. I've managed distributed teams, guided product roadmaps, mentored developers and ensured smooth delivery through JIRA and code reviews. Working closely with designers and marketers, I've been involved in UX decisions and A/B testing, performance improvements and responsive, SEO focused redesigns that have improved both user experience and business results.

"Simplicity is the best policy."

Beyond my day to day role I work with Shopify's Storefront API to build headless e-commerce experiences, and have experience developing across a range of platforms including Magento and OpenCart. Earlier in my career I built hybrid iOS and Android apps using Ionic, Cordova and Appcelerator Titanium, and delivered mobile solutions for clients including the NHS, Carillion, Addison Lee and London South Eastern Railway. I've also created in-house tools such as a goods-in tracking system using jQuery, PHP and MySQL that helped streamline operations and improve efficiency.

On the mobile side I now build in React Native and I'm actively looking into SwiftUI to work natively with iOS. My goal is to build apps that solve real business problems, whether that's an internal booking system, a client facing e-commerce application or a custom tool that helps a business run more efficiently. I find that side of development really exciting and it's an area I'm keen to grow in.

I also take on freelance projects for local businesses across Yorkshire, helping them build modern, professional websites and apps that work hard for their business. If you're based in Scarborough, Whitby, Filey, Bridlington, York or anywhere across North Yorkshire and you're looking for a web designer or developer, feel free to get in touch.

As a web designer and developer based in Scarborough I care deeply about creating smooth, accessible user experiences. I'm colour blind and have nystagmus, which gives me a personal understanding of how design choices affect real users and drives my commitment to building websites that work well for everyone. You can read more about how my conditions influence my approach to web design in my blog post on nystagmus and accessibility.

I've also driven changes tested through A/B testing that were adopted into production based on customer feedback. You can read more about one example of this in Mainline Menswear's A/B testing success story.

"I enjoy challenges that spark that late-night 'eureka' moment."

Outside of work I'm a huge fan of video games and technology. With a degree in Computer Games Modelling and Animation I've developed strong design skills and remain passionate about one day creating my own game. As a fan of the Star Fox series I'm working towards building my own on-rails shooter in Unity as a personal project.

Beyond coding and gaming I'm a Manchester United supporter and I enjoy relaxing with countryside walks, swimming, spending quality time with the family and watching the latest films at the cinema.