Hello, I am Ricardo Carvalho, a Developer, Full Stack and Digital Designer currently available to work as freelancer or full-time.
Hello, I am Ricardo Carvalho from Porto, Portugal.
With a career that began in 1997, Now i'm a Web Developer, Full Stack and Digital Designer with a passion for transforming ideas into impactful visual experiences.
Over the years, I've had the opportunity to collaborate with various brands and projects, developing creative and functional solutions that blend aesthetics, usability, and innovation.
A strong digital presence is essential for any brand or professional. Through a well-designed website, active social media, SEO optimization and relevant content, you establish credibility, reach your target audience, and create growth opportunities.
Your online presence is the first step to success in the digital world.
Your digital visual identity is the face of your brand online. It encompasses everything from your logo and color scheme to typography and imagery.
A consistent and compelling visual identity ensures your brand stands out, resonates with your audience, and communicates your values effectively in the digital space.
Before, I worked as Creative Director helping brands like Terracotta, Difusão Vitrais, Oporto House Garden, ThinkNew, Coral Books and much more...
Find Out MoreApplied Informatics Course.
During this period, I developed a solid foundation in applied informatics, focusing on the technical and analytical skills essential for the development and management of information systems. The course offered a balanced combination of theory and practice, allowing me to gain a deep understanding of the fundamental principles of information technology and their real-world applications.
The program emphasized a deep dive into programming languages, system architectures, and software development methodologies. I learned to analyze and design systems that meet specific business needs, ensuring both efficiency and scalability. Additionally, I gained hands-on experience with database management, allowing me to proficiently design, implement, and maintain databases, ensuring data integrity and performance.
A significant portion of the course was dedicated to understanding and working with computer networks and operating systems, which are fundamental to the modern IT infrastructure. I also developed strong problem-solving skills through courses on data structures and algorithms, which are critical for writing efficient code and optimizing system performance.
The course also included advanced topics such as Software Engineering, where I learned best practices for software development lifecycle management, and Human-Computer Interaction, which provided insights into creating user-friendly interfaces.
Moreover, the program incorporated a focus on Web Development, teaching me how to design and build dynamic, responsive websites using the latest web technologies. This included both front-end development (HTML, CSS, JavaScript) and back-end development (server-side scripting, database integration).
To round out my education, I also engaged in IT Project Management, where I learned to manage and lead technology projects, ensuring they are delivered on time, within scope, and to the satisfaction of stakeholders.
Professional Internship: Inforlider
During my professional internship at Inforlider, I had the opportunity to apply and expand the knowledge gained from my Applied Informatics course. I worked directly with the software development team, focusing on the enhancement and maintenance of existing enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. My primary responsibility was to support the development of additional features and optimizations for the company's management software using the COBOL programming language.
This internship provided me with valuable hands-on experience in a corporate environment, where I gained a deeper understanding of the needs and challenges businesses face in managing internal processes. I closely collaborated with systems analysts and senior developers, learning about best practices in software development, testing, and deployment within a production environment.
Additionally, the internship strengthened my skills in COBOL programming, a language widely used in management and financial systems, and taught me the importance of maintaining legacy systems that remain critical to many organizations.
Microdigital - Investigação e Desenvolvimento de Software Lda.
After completing my internship at Inforlider, I was invited by a former professor to join a newly formed team at Microdigital, with the primary goal of migrating the company's enterprise resource planning (ERP) software from a DOS-based environment developed in FoxPro to a modern 32-bit Windows environment. Our team utilized Visual Basic as the primary programming language and SQL Server as the database system to achieve this migration.
As a key member of the team, I was deeply involved in the entire software development lifecycle, from the initial analysis and planning stages to the actual coding and implementation of the new systems. This project provided me with comprehensive experience in all facets of software development, including system architecture design, database management, user interface design, and the integration of legacy systems into modern platforms.
The successful migration of these software products not only ensured their continued relevance in a rapidly evolving technology landscape but also significantly enhanced their functionality, user experience, and performance. Through this project, I gained valuable expertise in both the technical and strategic aspects of software development, making me proficient in managing complex software projects from start to finish.
Freelance Web Developer and Multimedia Course
After completing the successful software migration project at Microdigital, I sought to expand my expertise by exploring new programming languages and technologies. During this period, I transitioned to working as a freelance web developer while simultaneously enrolling in a Multimedia course to enhance my skills.
As a freelancer, I focused on creating websites for various businesses, utilizing HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to build responsive and visually appealing websites. This hands-on experience allowed me to specialize in front-end development, honing my skills in web design and user interface development. I worked closely with clients to understand their needs and delivered customized web solutions that met their business objectives.
In parallel, the Multimedia course provided me with a broader understanding of digital media, covering a range of topics from design principles to advanced multimedia techniques. The curriculum included training in video editing, 3D modeling, and graphic design, which complemented my web development work. This dual approach of practical freelance projects and formal education helped me to stay at the forefront of web technologies and multimedia trends of the time.
CDSoft - Consultoria e Desenvolvimento Software, Lda.
After completing my Multimedia course, I partnered with a group of like-minded professionals in the field of new technologies to establish our own company, CDSoft - Software Consulting and Development Ltd. Our goal was to leverage the extensive knowledge and experience we had accumulated to create innovative and customized management software solutions from the ground up.
At CDSoft, I played a crucial role in the analysis, design, and development of various software products tailored to meet the specific needs of our clients. Our primary focus was on developing robust management software for different industries. This included a specialized real estate management software, a comprehensive management system for law firms, and a versatile invoicing software.
My responsibilities spanned the entire software development lifecycle, from initial requirement gathering and system architecture design to coding, testing, and deployment. Working closely with clients, I ensured that our software solutions were not only technically sound but also aligned with the business processes and goals of our users. The experience of building software from scratch allowed me to deepen my understanding of complex system design, database management, and user interface development, ultimately leading to the successful delivery of high-quality software products.
Work as freelance developer.
After successfully completing the development of several key software products at CDSoft - Software Consulting and Development Ltd., I recognized the growing importance of online and mobile software solutions. To stay ahead of industry trends and expand my expertise, I embarked on a period of focused study in these areas, while simultaneously working as a freelance developer.
During this time, I dedicated myself to deepening my understanding of online and mobile technologies. I explored various frameworks, languages, and tools essential for creating dynamic, responsive web applications and mobile apps. My freelance work allowed me to apply this new knowledge in real-world projects, helping businesses transition to more modern, digital solutions.
As a freelancer, I worked on a variety of projects, including the development of web-based applications and mobile apps. I focused on delivering high-quality, user-friendly solutions that leveraged the latest technologies. This period of study and practical application not only enhanced my technical skills but also prepared me for future challenges in the rapidly evolving field of software development.
Microdigital - Investigação e Desenvolvimento de Software Lda.
After expanding my knowledge in online and mobile development, I received an invitation from Microdigital, the company where I began my programming career, to rejoin their team. I was tasked with leading the evolution and modernization of the existing ERP software, which I had previously helped to develop. My role focused on utilizing new programming languages such as Visual Basic .NET and C# to upgrade and migrate the company’s ERP systems to more advanced platforms.
In this role, I took on the responsibilities of both a project manager and a mentor to new programmers within the company. As a project manager, I led the planning, execution, and delivery of key software updates, ensuring that the projects met the company’s strategic goals and timelines. I worked closely with cross-functional teams to identify the most effective solutions for evolving the software, incorporating new features, and enhancing overall performance.
Additionally, I played a crucial role in training and mentoring new programmers, helping them to integrate into the team and guiding them in the use of modern development tools and methodologies. My focus was on fostering a collaborative environment where knowledge sharing and continuous improvement were encouraged, ensuring that the team could successfully manage the transition to newer technologies.
Freelance Developer
After completing my work at Microdigital, I recognized the rapidly expanding potential of the online marketplace and decided to shift my focus toward developing cutting-edge online software solutions. During this period, I worked as a freelance developer, taking on small projects while dedicating significant time to studying new technologies, particularly the Laravel framework and its PHP-based ecosystem.
My goal was to create a comprehensive invoicing software solution with integrated eCommerce capabilities, fully online and accessible from anywhere. Laravel, with its robust features and flexibility, became the cornerstone of my exploration into modern web development. I delved into its various components, mastering the framework to build scalable, secure, and efficient online applications.
This period allowed me to expand my expertise in PHP and web technologies, equipping me with the knowledge needed to design and develop complex online solutions. I also gained practical experience in integrating various web services and APIs, enhancing the functionality and reach of the projects I worked on. My freelance work provided opportunities to apply this knowledge in real-world scenarios, helping clients transition their businesses to the digital realm.
ThinkNew - Technology Consulting, Lda.
As a passionate developer with a deep love for creating new content and innovative solutions, I co-founded ThinkNew - Technology Consulting, Lda. with a colleague. Our main goal was to develop a fully online invoicing software solution with integrated eCommerce capabilities. During this period, we successfully developed and certified three versions of our online invoicing software.
I played a crucial role in every stage of the software development process, from initial analysis and planning to development and deployment. My responsibilities included designing the system architecture, coding key components, and ensuring the software met all necessary regulatory requirements for certification. The technologies we employed included PHP, Laravel, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and MySQL, among others.
This project was the most challenging and rewarding of my career, as it was entirely developed by me, from start to finish. The experience not only allowed me to apply and refine my technical skills but also to lead the team through complex challenges, ensuring that our solutions were robust, scalable, and user-friendly. It was an enriching journey that deepened my understanding of full-stack development and solidified my passion for creating impactful software solutions.
Coral Books, Art and Design, Lda.
After successfully certifying and launching our invoicing software, I was invited by a friend to assist in creating the online presence for Coral Books, Art and Design, Lda. My role involved developing a comprehensive eCommerce website, optimizing it for search engines (SEO), and managing all aspects of the company’s digital presence.
The project began with designing and developing an eCommerce platform that was not only visually appealing but also functional and user-friendly. I focused on creating a seamless user experience, ensuring that customers could easily browse and purchase products online. This included implementing a secure payment gateway, setting up a robust product catalog, and integrating inventory management systems.
In addition to the technical development, I also worked on optimizing the site for search engines to enhance its visibility and drive traffic. This involved keyword research, on-page SEO optimization, and creating a content strategy that aligned with the company’s branding and target audience. Furthermore, I helped establish a strong digital presence by integrating social media platforms, setting up email marketing campaigns, and ensuring that the website was mobile-friendly and responsive.
This project provided a holistic approach to web development, combining technical skills with digital marketing strategies to build a strong online presence for the business.
RC Developer
With a wealth of experience gained from years of developing software solutions and creating robust online platforms, I decided to establish my own brand, RC Developer. My mission is to help businesses build a strong and consistent digital presence, which is essential in today’s competitive market. Through RC Developer, I provide a comprehensive range of services that cater to the diverse needs of modern businesses, ensuring they can thrive in the digital landscape.
At RC Developer, I focus on creating and enhancing the digital visual identity of companies, ensuring that their brand is represented accurately and attractively across all online channels. This involves everything from designing visually compelling websites to developing mobile web apps that provide a seamless user experience. I also specialize in search engine optimization (SEO), helping businesses increase their online visibility and attract more organic traffic.
In addition to web development and SEO, I manage social media strategies, crafting content and campaigns that resonate with target audiences and strengthen the brand’s online presence. By integrating all these elements, I ensure that businesses not only have a solid web presence but also a cohesive and effective digital strategy that drives growth and engagement.
This is the work I am currently dedicated to, and it represents the culmination of all my previous experiences and expertise in the field of digital development.