North East Digital Studio

Hi, I'm Alan

I'm the founder of North East Digital Studio, where I help businesses, organisations, and individuals create modern websites and digital solutions that are practical, reliable, and easy to manage.

Technology has been a lifelong interest of mine. I studied BSc Applied Physics and Microelectronics at Northumbria University, where I completed an industrial placement with the Space Science Division at the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory. During this time, I worked on radiation detection and measurement, experimental setup, data collection, and analysis, as well as preparing technical reports and presentations. This early experience in a high-level scientific research environment helped develop a structured, analytical approach to problem-solving that I still apply today.

From there, I built my career around software development, data analytics, and Microsoft's Power Platform. Over the years I've developed websites, business applications, databases, and reporting solutions, combining technical expertise with a practical approach to solving real-world problems.

I've worked on projects ranging from business websites to enterprise systems, including developing digital solutions for public sector organisations. My experience spans web development, data analytics, automation, and software development, allowing me to understand both the technical and business aspects of a project.

My Approach

I believe that good digital solutions should be straightforward, well-designed, and built with the future in mind. Whether I'm creating a simple brochure website or a more complex business solution, my goal is always the same:

• Build websites that are fast, responsive, and easy to use
• Develop solutions that solve genuine business problems
• Communicate clearly throughout every stage of a project
• Deliver work that is maintainable and can grow alongside your business

As an independent developer, you'll work directly with me from our first conversation through to the finished project. This means clear communication, consistent quality, and a personal service throughout.

Technical Experience

My background includes experience with:

• Website design and development
• HTML, CSS, JavaScript and C#
• ASP.NET and .NET development
• Python programming
• SQL and database design
• Microsoft Power Platform
• Microsoft Dataverse
• Data analytics and reporting
• Microsoft Azure
• WordPress development
• Automation and business process improvement

I enjoy continually learning new technologies and applying them where they add genuine value.

Beyond Work

Outside of software development, I enjoy photography and videography, particularly at events and while exploring Northumberland, and historic sites. I’m also interested in electronics, science, and technology, which often feed into my personal projects.

I have a deep interest in philosophy, particularly in questions around existence, knowledge, ethics, and the nature of reality. I enjoy exploring ideas from thinkers such as Plato, Aristotle, Kant, and Nietzsche. Engaging with philosophy helps me develop critical thinking and a broader perspective, which I find valuable when approaching both personal and professional challenges.

These interests help me stay creative, curious, and always learning.

London to Sydney Overland Journey (2003–2004)

One of the most defining experiences of my life was an overland journey from London to Sydney, undertaken in 2003. Over the course of nineteen months, I travelled through twenty-six countries without flying, relying entirely on trains, buses, boats, and local transport.

The journey took me across an extraordinary range of environments — from the deserts of Iran and Pakistan, through the Himalayas in Nepal, across the Tibetan plateau, and into the jungles of Southeast Asia, before eventually reaching the Australian Outback.

Along the way, I encountered ancient cities, remote villages, and some of the most significant historical and cultural sites in the world, including Persepolis, Angkor Wat, and countless others.

It was also a journey that came with real challenges — political instability in certain regions, health outbreaks, difficult border crossings, and moments that required quick thinking and adaptability in unfamiliar situations.

More than anything, it taught me resilience, problem-solving, and the importance of staying calm and adaptable when things don’t go to plan — lessons that carry directly into how I approach development projects today.

Let's Work Together

Whether you're looking for a new website, improvements to an existing one, or a bespoke digital solution, I'd be happy to discuss your ideas and explore how I can help.

Thank you for visiting North East Digital Studio, and I look forward to hearing from you.