Nate Reist Speaker Interview

Nate ReistNate Reist is a partner and lead developer at Mindutopia in Grand Rapids MI. Mindutopia is primarily a WordPress development shop. He studied computer science and digital media arts and technologies at Michigan State University. He’s got a passion for problem-solving, and WordPress has been a great part of solving problems for him.

Nate will be presenting AJAX : using JavaScript in WordPress.

Interview

Why do you use WordPress?

I feel it is one of the best options for Content Management on the web. WordPress is a great platform for making everything from a website to a full fledged web application.

When and how did you start using WordPress?

Early 2010, Mindutopia tried it as new content management option for our clients. It was love at first site. *Pun intended*

What tips or resources would you recommend to a new WordPress user?

Explore and try new things. WordPress is very well documented online and has a great user base. And attend WordCamps for sure, learning from others and sometimes this is learning from their mistakes.

What advice would you give someone who’s building a business around WordPress design or development?

Many solutions exist out there for projects extending code from existing plugins and themes to custom written solutions. Learn how to appropriately evaluate the needs of the client and the project to make sure you are taking the right approach. Also make sure you have very clear scope and expectations from all parties involved in a project, this will save a lot of headaches.

How do you stay informed about WordPress (news, tips, etc.)?

Work with it every day, explore the code and the Codex, and read resources like WP Tavern and other industry blogs.

What’s a cool WordPress-based site you’ve seen recently?

Riotfest is a music fest that happens in cities around North America. I like seeing real-world uses of WordPress. I will note their subdomains are not in WordPress.

What do you like most about WordCamps?

Meeting others that are passionate about WordPress and learning new and exciting things from my peers

Where can we find you online?

mindutopia.com and profiles.wordpress.org/natereist/