Becky is an indie web developer based in Chicago. She specializes in custom themes; not only making them functional and beautiful, but making them user and client friendly. Training on how to use a site during development is a big part of what she offers.
She has been active in the WordPress community here for over 5 years, have spoken at many WordCamps and hosts the Northside WordPress meetup.
Becky Davis will be presenting “Constructing a Large Information Site” on Saturday, October 15 at 9:00am in the West Conference Room.
Why do use WordPress?
As a developer it’s the devil I’ve come to know and love. There is always a way to learn something new and get help. For my clients, I want to empower them. I think we sometimes forget that WordPress is content management, I want all my clients to truly be comfortable with changing their own content.
When and how did you start using WordPress?
My Dad was a poet and political activist. I setup my first WordPress site for him, so he could have a place to publish his thoughts.
What would you tell someone to convince them to attend a WordCamp?
It’s cheap and easy to attend. You’ll meet some really cool and interesting people and your brain will feel like and over-full sponge by the end. What’s not to like?
Tell us about something awesome you’ve experienced at a WordCamp in the past.
My last camp was WC Europe this summer. Meeting people from all over the world with the same passion was really enlightening.
Give an example of a cool WordPress project you have worked on recently.
I’m really proud to have developed https://garfieldconservatory.org/. This is a major institution in Chicago and really worth a visit. Making their donation and event process 10x easier than it was? Bonus.
What is your favorite part of WordCamps?
Networking and meeting interesting people.
What advice do you have for anyone looking to start or grow a WordPress based business?
Commit to it. Keep learning. Be helpful. Step away from the screen on a regular basis.
Tell us something awesome about yourself that is not WordPress related.
I love working with my hands on stuff that requires no electricity or technology like knitting and gardening.
Name someone in the WordPress community that inspires you.
I hate this question, there are so many!
What has been your biggest WordPress related accomplishment to date?
Staying in business and supporting myself for over 8 years. Along the way I’ve helped clients build some pretty amazing things that have helped their businesses.
How have WordCamps impacted you and your business in the past?
Getting business directly from a WC should never be the goal. But has getting and giving help been a benefit? Absolutely.
Fill in the blank for other attendees: “If you ___________ then you should come talk to me at WordCamp.”
really want to understand how to deal with categories and taxonomies
What should someone learn before attending your talk at WordCamp Ann Arbor?
Really think about how you want to organize and present your content so people can find it.
What is your favorite WordPress related resource?
Again, too many! But I always seem to find myself back at the Codex and sites by Chris Coyier.