We are QuietStrength
Bringing clarity to complexity
QuietStrength is an independent design, technology and software practice. I help people understand complicated things, improve products that aren’t working as well as they should and build thoughtful software where the right solution doesn’t exist yet.
My work spans product design, UX and systems audits, software development and specialist publishing, alongside products of my own built around the same principles.
What I do
UX & Product Audits
Independent, evidence-based reviews that identify what isn’t working, why and what to do about it.Systems Audits
A deeper investigation of systems, integrations and workflows to uncover complexity, weaknesses and risk.
Software Development
Design and development of thoughtful native and web applications, from working prototypes to production software.
Two examples of live apps are my QuietStrength wellness app (https://body.quietstrength.uk) and From the Pitchside. An app designed for grass roots football and rugby coaches to manage tactics, training and to manage teams and the game on match day. From the Pitchside is currently being tested by some grass roots teams before public launch on the App Store.
Currently in development is QuietStrength Canvas, a complete document layout, illustration and book publishing package for Mac OS built around the bespoke QuietStrength Layout language.
Books, Design & Production
Independent book audits, design, typesetting and production for authors and publishers. Performed using my own custom built book publishing software designed from over 15 years of book publishing experience.
How I think
Build with intention
I ask “Should I build this?” before “Can I build this?”. Technology makes almost anything possible. That doesn’t mean everything should exist.
Simplicity is achieved by removing
I don’t begin by asking what else I can add. I look for what can disappear while making the experience better.
Technology should quietly support people
The best technology reduces friction and helps without constantly demanding attention.
Privacy is a feature
People should own their data. I collect as little personal information as possible and treat privacy as part of the product rather than an optional extra.
Build things I genuinely use
Significant features should solve real problems. If something wouldn’t improve my own life, I question whether it belongs in somebody else’s.
How I use AI
I believe AI is a collaborator. It should support human thinking, not replace it.