Melissa Lau

Web & Graphic Designer

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Dive into a world where art meets technology with me, a solo wizard in web and graphic design for over 20 years. Specializing in creating unique, open-minded, and tailored designs for small businesses, I blend advanced CSS, PHP, and JavaScript with an intuitive WordPress touch to elevate your digital presence. It’s not just design; it’s a digital transformation tailored just for you.

As a versatile Web and Graphic Designer with over 20 years of experience, I specialize in delivering dynamic, user-centric websites and digital assets that enhance brand engagement. Working as a Freelance Designer/Developer over a decade encompasses both design and marketing, with a strong emphasis on web development. Leveraging skills in Advanced CSS, PHP and JavaScript, I have also successfully transformed client websites, enhancing user engagement through an intuitive WordPress design. These experiences underline a deep-seated dedication to blending art with technology to elevate customer experiences.

Experience

Merchandising Execution Associate

The Home Depot | 2017 – Present

  • Enhanced productivity by streamlining workflows and setting clear expectations for staff.
  • Maintained team efficiency by applying leadership and problem-solving skills effectively.
  • Improved customer satisfaction through timely responses and effective solution implementation.
  • Resolved team conflicts promptly to foster a harmonious and productive environment.
  • Enhanced team communication by holding regular meetings and promoting open dialogue.
  • Increased team productivity by training and mentoring staff on best practices.

Freelance | 2001 – Present

  • Enhance user experiences by designing responsive websites with HTML, CSS, JavaScript. Collaborated with clients to define tailored web project requirements effectively.
  • Visualized design concepts through wireframes and prototypes, gathering stakeholder feedback.
  • Boost website visibility and search rankings through effective SEO practices.
  • Streamline design processes using modern tools like Figma and Adobe XD.
  • Utilized PHP and JavaScript to develop custom functionalities, ensuring responsive and optimized web pages.

AdMax Local | 2015 – 2017

  • Improved user engagement by (15%) on landing pages and website by redesigning and maintaining site features PHP, JavaScript, CSS, HTML, Mustache, XML
  • Developed and launched responsive web applications using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript frameworks.
  • Led implementation of agile methodologies to enhance project delivery efficiency.
  • Optimized website performance through code reviews and debugging techniques. Collaborated with cross-functional teams to define technical requirements and specifications.
  • Drove continuous improvement initiatives resulting in enhanced user experience and satisfaction.
  • Enhanced site functionality by integrating custom features and troubleshooting technical issues.

MoFuse | 2012 – 2013

  • Increased mobile site efficiency by developing custom WordPress sites using APIs.
  • Led service team efforts, boosting customer satisfaction and operational performance.
  • Created dynamic CSS and templates to enhance site usability and versatility.
  • Enhanced site functionality through advanced coding in CSS, JavaScript, and PHP.
  • Streamlined mobile site creation for partners with rapid onboarding solutions.
  • Oversaw daily operations, ensuring seamless service delivery and customer satisfaction.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to align service strategies with corporate objectives.
  • Analyzed service metrics to drive strategic improvements and enhance overall operational effectiveness.
  • Analyzed service metrics to drive strategic improvements and enhance overall operational effectiveness.
  • Led service team efforts, boosting customer satisfaction and operational performance by 45%.
  • Created dynamic CSS and templates, improving site usability and versatility.

ADP | 2006 – 2012

  • Enhanced dealership websites, improving user engagement through interactive design elements.
  • Directed accurate vehicle model video tours, integrating data with OEM systems.
  • Oversaw video content production, ensuring high-quality scripts and effective distribution.
  • Collaborated with developers, enhancing video tour products and maintaining vehicle data accuracy.
  • Aligned digital projects with client visions and deadlines through effective collaboration.
  • Created logos and graphics, resolving coding and design challenges efficiently.
  • Developed and maintained web applications to enhance user experience.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to define project requirements and objectives.
  • Implemented SEO strategies to improve site visibility and traffic.

Education

Northern Michigan University | 2001 – 2005

  1. The Electronic Imaging major, computer art, provides broad competencies in the various digital technologies involved with computer graphics production.
  2. This includes aspects of web design, multimedia design (primarily for DVD), digital illustration and photo manipulation, pre-press production, 3D modeling, animation and special effects, and a general integration with other art and design fields.

High School Diploma | 1998 – 2001

  1. Computer and Math Team 
  2. National Honor Society
  3. Foreign Language Honor Society (Italian)

Volunteer

K9 Connection | 2013 – 2024

  • Ensured website remained current by performing weekly updates and content management tasks.
  • Maintained user engagement by regularly refreshing site content and design elements.
  • Provided reliable web hosting services, fostering site accessibility and performance stability.
  • Monitored website performance metrics to identify and resolve technical issues promptly.
  • Collaborated with team members to implement design improvements based on user feedback.

Pawtucket Slaterettes | 2009 – 2015

  • Designed the new look for the Pawtucket Slaterettes web site.
  • Responsible for updating and maintaining the site on a monthly basis.
  • Moved site to WordPress to utilize the CMS tool

Vested Interest in K9’s | 2012 – 2013

  • Worked with existing Webmaster (Christine Bearse) and the President of the organization (Sandy Marcal) on various projects for the website
  • This included but not limited to SEO optimization, and new plugin development.

Skills, Languages & Techniques:

  • WordPress
  • CSS
  • PHP
  • Usability Testing
  • JavaScript
  • HTML
  • Project Management
  • Customer Support
  • Teamwork
  • Communication
  • Merchandising
  • Figma
  • Project Planning
  • Front End Development
  • Technical Support
  • Adobe Creative Suite

Honors & Awards

Sales Leadership

Led team to achieve 20% increase in store sales over 6 months.

Website Redeign

Redesigned website, boosting visitor duration by 30% in 3 months.

Logistics Optimization

Managed logistics, reduced shipping costs by 15% within first year.

Adobe Training Expert

Trained 50+ employees in Adobe Photoshop, enhancing team's design efficiency by 25%.