How I Build: My Journey and Workflow as a Frontend Developer

Meet Me: The Developer Behind the Code

Hi, I’m Ken Gray Agbapuonwu, a self-driven frontend web developer from Nigeria with a background in Electrical and Information Engineering and a strong passion for creating clean, user-friendly digital experiences.

I started my journey like many others a curious explorer of the web, wanting to build things I could actually see come to life. Today, I specialize in React, JavaScript, and TypeScript for frontend. I’m also a photographer, and I believe that creativity and structure can go hand-in-hand both in frames and in code.

Though I focus heavily on frontend development, I’m also comfortable working on backend logic when necessary. I understand how to bridge frontend interfaces with backend systems and APIs, ensuring smooth communication between what the user sees and how the system works behind the scenes.

When there’s no dedicated designer on a project, I take initiative by crafting layouts myself. I use Figma to map out UI concepts, or I turn to design platforms like Dribbble, Behance, and Canva to gather inspiration. This has helped me stay visually sharp while also building experiences that feel intuitive and intentional.

My Workflow: How I Approach Projects

Here’s a glimpse into how I work from idea to execution:

1. Understand the Problem or Idea
   Every project starts with clarity. I break down the purpose of the build and create user stories or quick outlines that guide both structure and interaction. Understanding the "why" helps everything else fall into place.

2. Design Comes First
   I value structure and visual clarity, so design is always a key starting point. Whether it’s sketching a rough wireframe or creating a more polished layout in Figma, I focus on how best to communicate the purpose of the page or feature. When inspiration is needed, I explore creative references from Dribbble, Behance, or Canva to guide direction and mood.

3. Setup with Vite and React
   For most of my projects, I work with Vite and React — a fast, modern setup that allows for clean, scalable code. I organize components based on reusability and readability, making future updates or collaboration much smoother.

4. Styling with Tailwind CSS
   I use Tailwind CSS for styling because of its efficiency and control. It allows me to move quickly while still maintaining precision and responsiveness across screen sizes.

5. State and Logic Handling
   I use React’s built-in tools like useState and useContext to manage application state and pass data between components. I keep logic organized, separating concerns and ensuring that functionality doesn’t get in the way of readability.

6. Persistence Matters
   I implement data persistence so that user input or relevant data stays intact across sessions. Whether through localStorage or other lightweight solutions, I aim to improve usability and reduce friction.

7. Testing and Feedback
   After building, I test across breakpoints and devices to ensure the design holds up. I also gather feedback early — from users, team members, or fellow developers — to catch blind spots and improve the user experience.

8. Deploy and Reflect
   Deployment is done through platforms like Vercel, and once a project is live, I take a moment to review the process: what worked, what didn’t, and what can be improved in the next iteration.

Why I’m Writing

I created this blog to share my process, not just the polished final result. Tech is fast-moving, and while trends change, good practice and thoughtful workflows stand the test of time. Whether you're just starting out or refining your own process, I hope my journey offers some insight or inspiration.

Let’s Talk

I’m always open to new conversations, feedback, and collaboration. If something here resonates with you or you’d like to connect, I’d love to hear from you.

Let’s keep building.

Ken Gray Agbapuonwu
Frontend Developer
Dev by day, creator by soul