
Andy Blyth
Technical Architect, Sensei, Photographer, Husband, Dad
Technical Architect
C#
Developer
Sensei
Photographer
Husband & Dad
Solving problems, then writing code
Recently promoted to Technical Architect @ Dept, still working out what this entails. I'll keep you informed 🤣
Until then here is the wiki description
"Software architects make high-level design choices based on their programming experience. In addition, the software architect may sometimes propose technical standards, including coding standards, tools, or platforms.
Software architects may also be engaged in the design of the architecture of the hardware environment, or may focus entirely on the design methodology of the code.
Architects can use various software architectural models that specialize in communicating architecture."
Manchester Based C# Web Developer
Since 2003 I have worked for various digital agencies. I have generally focused on web development, but also worked on other applications. For the most part, I have developed using ASP.NET and C#, but I have worked with many languages over the years.
I mainly develop websites using a CMS/DXP platform. For the past few years this has mainly been SDL Tridion, Umbraco (including uCommerce) and Contentful (Contentful Certified Professional). I am now working with Optimizely (Episerver) and preparing for the Optimizely Content Cloud Certification.
In previous roles I have helped develop three different bespoke CMS and eCommerce platforms, which have been used by companies like JD Sports, A-Plant and size?.
I work hard to keep up to date with what is going on in the world of development and digital media. I am always tinkering with something new, like the Konami Code easter egg on this site.
2nd Dan Black Belt in Japanese Jiu-Jitsu
I currently train in Traditional Japanese Jiu-Jitsu at Ruschroft Jiu-Jitsu Club, HQ of IJJO. I have been training under Sensei Neville Kershaw for several years now, and I am currently a 2nd Dan Black Belt. I split my time between training and mentoring the senior coloured belts.
This helps to keep me in some sort of shape. Getting the blood pumping on a regular basis. I gain a lot from Jiu-Jitsu, self-discipline, improved health, focus, confidence.
Photographer
Photography has always played a large part of my life and I have never been without a camera. I love going out for walk with my family, camera in hand and capturing some great moments.
You can see some of my photos on my photography page, where I have uploaded some of the better photos.
My Wife of a Geek, Thing #1 & Thing #2
My wife puts up with so much, she makes sure me and the boys are dressed and presentable. I could reel off a list of things she does for me, but it would be a long list, as basically she does everything.
I have two boys, they mean the world to me and I can not imagine life without them. My heart bursts every time I see them. They are the funniest two people I have ever met, and can always make me smile, no matter how hard my day has been!
You can follow my wife's Facebook page Wife of a Geek.

Why every web developer should have k6 installed
Posted on Thursday, 18th November 2021 - 3 minute Read
Running Optimizely 12 on a Mac
Posted on Wednesday, 13th October 2021 - 1 minute Read
So what does a Technical Architect do?
Posted on Sunday, 19th September 2021 - 1 minute Read
Default Values in Contentful
Posted on Wednesday, 8th September 2021 - 1 minute Read
New site for Wife of a Geek
Posted on Friday, 23rd July 2021 - 1 minute Read
How to open rich text links in a new tab in Contentful.net
Posted on Thursday, 22nd July 2021 - 4 minute ReadTestimonials
Technologies







Employment & Education
2021-Present
Technical Architect @ Dept
Recently promoted to Technical Architect, more to follow...
2016-2021
Senior Developer @ Dept
Here I am one of the Senior Developers. My main area of expertise is SDL Tridion , but I also support with projects built on Umbraco, Contentful, and shortly will begin working with Episerver.
2015-2016
Managing Director @ We Do Code
I setup We Do Code in 2015, and worked with a small group of loyal customers on large bespoke asp.net web applications. After 12 months I found it difficult to balance work and family, so I made the tough decision to close the business.
2015-Present
Sensei @ Rushcroft Jiu-Jitsu Club (IJJO)
After an extended break I returned to the world of Jiu Jitsu, working hard to refresh my skills and complete my 1st Dan Black Belt grading in 2015 and my 2nd Dan Black Belt grading in 2017.
2009-2015
Technical Director @ Redstar Creative
The most senior technical person within RedStar Creative. I provided technical direction on business decision making.
As the Technical Director, I worked on single projects and managed many projects developed by my staff. I kept close contact with the Managing Director, Client Account Managers, and Project Managers.
2007-2009
C# Web Developer @ Idaho Technology
I worked here until I was made redundant. My role at Idaho was as a Web Developer. I focused on building custom controls that interacted with the database (including stored procedures). This allowed the front end developer to customise the HTML and CSS.
I was responsible, with another developer, for building the new .net version of the CMS. I also set up and managed an SVN server as before my employment no version control system was in place.
2006-2009
PgDip Database and Web Based Systems @ The University of Salford
Modules included Computer Networks, Programming for Networks, Management Principles and Practices, Research Methods, Advanced Databases, and Web-based Systems Development.
2005-2007
C# Web Developer @ Visuality
I worked with the .NET environment, using both C# and VB 6 to integrate websites with Visuality’s CMS system. I worked with MSSQL, XHTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
Whilst maintaining legacy sites I also worked with ASP, VB6. I developed new features for the systems. Including a new search functionality in the ‘i2i’ email marketing system. Additions to the CMS such as the new ‘PageBuilder’ system. I was also involved in translating parts of the CMS from classic ASP/VB6 to C# .NET. I was responsible for managing the support team.
2004-2006
BSc(Hons) Internet Computing @ The University of Salford
Modules included XML Development, Natural Language Programming, Parallel Programming, Web Development, Structures, Entrepreneurial Management, Communication Systems, Artificial Intelligence, and Internet Security.
2003-2005
Freelance Developer @ Elite Edge Marketing
Mainly working with bespoke sites, and a couple of early Umbraco sites, this gave me a taste of agency work, and it's pretty much all I have done since.
2002-2004
FdSc Computer Science @ The University of Salford
Modules included Developing Java, System Analysis, Object Orientated Design, Computer Architecture, Web Scripting, Operating Systems Management, and Human-Computer Interaction