Welcome... this is the portfolio of Chris Scott. I am a writer and web designer currently living in Lynchburg Virginia. Take a look at some of my work.
About Me
I describe myself as an internet entrepreneur. The web is my speciality.
I went to school for journalism. I wanted to be a writer but I realized few people my age actively read newspapers, magazines or any sort of print publication. Search engines and online content have largely satisfied the Next Gen need for information. People have become reliant on blogs and social media tools like Facebook and Twitter as a means of communication.
My goal as a web writer, marketer and designer is to be an effective communicator. I’ve spent an immense amount of time learning the social and technological aspects of the web. I believe my generation will be remembered for being the first to develop the internet. I do my best to contribute.
Technical Skills
"Don't make something unless it is both necessary and useful; But if it is both necessary and useful, don't hesitate to make it beautiful."
- Shaker dictum
I am proficient in XHTML/HTML, CSS, PHP and SQL. I dabble in Javascript and jQuery. I like to handle things efficiently from the server side (I'm no fan of pixel pushing) and most of my experience is with the LAMP software bundle (Linux, Apache, MySQL and PHP). In my Adobe Suite quiver I've got flaming Photoshop, InDesign and Illustrator arrows.
I am a strong WordPress advocate. I have learned how to use the open source content management system for managing every type of website imaginable (blog, small business, newspaper, ecommerce, etc.). Its powerful PHP core, open source licensing, abundance of plugins and vibrant community make it an ideal choice for most website content managing needs. I've also had experience with the MyBB (as forum management software), Drupal, Joomla and Magento content management systems. WordPress is my strong point.
Education
Liberty University; Lynchburg, Virginia. Bachelor of Science in Communications with a specialization in Journalism and minor in Government.
Past Employers
- Envision Marketing; Lynchburg, Virginia. Database Manager/IT, Oct. 2011-present.
- New River Packaging; Rustburg, Virginia. Custom Corrugated Box Manufacturer, Aug. 2010-Oct. 2011.
- The Liberty Champion; Lynchburg, Virginia. Web Designer & Manager, 2010-11.
- Doc's Diner; Lynchburg, Virginia. Waiter, 2009.
- River Valley Ranch; Manchester, Maryland. Camp Counselor, Summer 2008.
- Ham's Restaurant; Lynchburg, Virginia. Waiter, 2008.
- Hyde Park Roller Magic; Hyde Park, New York. Skate Guard / Kitchen, 2005-08.
Web Design
I build modern websites that emphasize functionality over fluff. A modern website is also something anyone can update with the use of a reliable content management system such as WordPress, Drupal or Joomla. After taking client input I prefer to be given a creative license and free reign in the design process. When the job is finished I don't leave the client in the dark. I continue my service with website security, CMS upgrades and other technical maintenance.
Web Marketing
I've had experience with online affiliate marketing as a vendor and affiliate with ClickBank.com, ran multiple Google AdWords campaigns and monetized sites with Google AdSense and private advertisements. I'm well versed in internal and external search engine optimization (growing Blogtap.net from 0 to 1,000 daily visitors in months). I've also had experience managing email lists with services like MailChimp and using Google Analytics as website traffic analysis software.
Writing
Most of my experience is in writing for the web, specifically the blogging medium. It is clear that members of my generation get most of their information from the web. So naturally I've tried to specialize in writing for the web. I practice this by blogging. I blog about my life. I blog about things that are funny to me. I blog on other peoples' blogs. I even blog about blogging. I'm all about blogging. Heck even my cat blogs. If you would like to hire me for an online writing endeavour, I am your man.
Freelance
Below are pricing base rates. Each web design job is unique so the prices below are not always applicable. The monthly fee compensates me for the inevitable time I spend on website security and maintenance after the job is finished.
Pricing
|
Plain HTML and CSS |
Plugged into a CMS |
Monthly Fee* |
| Personal Website |
$300 |
$400 |
$10 |
| Business Website |
$800 |
$1,000 |
$15 |
| Information Website |
- |
$1,500 |
$25 |
*The monthly fee can be waved under the condition that I do not provide any technical support or website tweaking whatsoever after the job is finished.
My prices are low because I am at the point in my freelancing career where I value experience more than income. I also work fast. Provide me with a concept and I can deliver a plain HTML/CSS mockup within two days.
If you have the layout of the website in an image format (PSD, JPG, PNG, etc.), I can translate it into HTML/CSS within a day and plug it into a CMS within two days.
If you need something done and a gigantic web design company tells you that the job is "very complicated" and gives you a quote in the 5 figure range, contact me. It is likely I can do the job twice as fast at half the price.
Testimonials
We have been through a few webmasters, none of which provided what they promised. Chris on the other hand not only did what he said he would do, but availed himself to answer any questions we had and fixed problems in a timely manner. We have received many compliments from our customers on our new site and are thankful for his professionalism and expertise. We will be recommending you to all of our business associates and friends. Thank you.
— Maryann & John Zinzi, Owners and Operators of Hyde Park Roller Magic
Time efficient, dependable and very concise, which is most needed in this type of service. You are the best I have had so far and I would really like you to continue. Thank you so much for your services!
—Jaesook Gho, Ph.D., CFLE. Assistant Professor of DLP Counseling, Liberty University
Thanks to Chris’ wealth of knowledge and his can do attitude, he was able to help make my humor blog site far more professional in appearance, user-friendly and functional. No request was too small for his time and attention. No question was too stupid. He works quickly and is scarily smart in terms of an understanding of web technology and the written word. He is an excellent written communicator and someone that I vouch for, despite the fact we have never met in person.
— Tim Jones, View From the Bleachers
