What is your role in developing the Portal?
I work mainly in the front end. So, what the user actually sees and interacts with. I like to tell people that if they think of the Portal as a restaurant then I'm the waiter.
I've also recently been learning more about Kubernetes and how we can use this in the Portal. To stick with my restaurant analogy, this helps to develop a logistics system that helps keep everything in the restaurant running smoothly.
What has been the most challenging part so far?
I would say that Kubernetes has been a challenge because it is not just something that you do. Instead, it's important to make sure it is correctly configured since it can easily break everything.
Additionally, we've been creating many of the designs for the Portal in-house, usually by my colleague Omer. In previous positions, the designs were completed and provided before as opposed to making changes as we go.
What do you try to keep in mind when developing?
The biggest thing for me is user experience. I aim to make it as simple as possible for people to navigate and use the Portal. If you add too many buttons, features, etc it can become overwhelming very quickly and cause people to give up. I also wanted to focus on making the Portal accessible for everyone regardless of technical knowledge by providing sections with information on terms, documentation, and help sections.
What is your favorite feature?
We're still working on the Service Page but are getting much closer to having a really cool dashboard with clear visual information on everything related to Inter.link.
What's coming next?
We're working with a new design agency and they have been really helpful with improving the overall design. They've also helped us to polish up the overall feel and functionality of the Portal.
I'm also planning on getting more involved in the backend. I really appreciate all of my colleagues and how helpful everyone is. It's a good opportunity to improve my skills and learn new things.
What's it been like working at Inter.link?
I really like the ability to work remotely. Additionally, there is a lot of flexibility with my schedule. It allows me to spend time with family, run errands, and just overall feel more rested. As an employee you are trusted to get your work done without micromanagement.
It also helps to have a good group of colleagues who are nice and approachable. Everyone is willing to help if they can and you don't need to worry that you will accidentally ruin something.
In the software team, we've developed really good processes which allow us to do reviews and sprint planning easily.
Coming from Egypt it has been a bit of an adjustment to the concept of being on-time in Germany. But I'm gettting used to it. 😀
