Have a project in mind?
Let's discuss what you're working on and how I can help.
I typically respond within 24 hours.
I build custom software and AI-powered automations
From AI workflows to full-stack web apps - designed, built, and deployed end-to-end to solve real business problems.
Trusted for
Production-ready software
End-to-end builds
AI workflow automation
Rails & modern web apps
Long-term technical partner
How I can help
Two ways to work together
Automation Projects
Connect your tools and eliminate manual data work
I build automation systems that connect your existing tools (Airtable, Notion, CRMs, etc.) to reduce manual data entry and keep everything in sync.
- Automated data sync between tools
- Custom workflows using Make, Zapier, or n8n
- API integrations for unique business needs
- Reduction in manual copying and pasting
- Clean data flows without errors
Product Development
Build web applications with AI integration
I develop web applications using Rails, integrate AI APIs (Claude, OpenAI), and focus on getting to a working version quickly. My recent work includes UX Audit App and AI Talk Coach.
- Working web applications in production
- AI integration using Claude or OpenAI APIs
- Clean, maintainable Rails codebases
- User interfaces that work well
- Focus on solving specific problems
How we'll work together
A clear, structured process that reduces risk
1
Understanding
We talk about what you're trying to accomplish and what's currently not working. I ask questions about your workflow, tools, and what success looks like.
Initial call2
Planning
I outline what I'll build, how it will work, and what you'll get. This includes any integrations, features, or automation steps. You review and we adjust as needed.
1-2 days3
Building
I develop the application or automation, testing as I go. You get access to see progress and provide feedback. I focus on getting something working first, then refining it.
Varies by scope4
Handoff
Once it's working and tested, I hand it off with documentation. If bugs come up or adjustments are needed, I fix them. Ongoing improvements can be scoped separately.
End of projectMy principles:
- Working software over perfect plans
- Clear deliverables, no ambiguity
- Regular updates on progress
- Practical solutions that actually work
- Direct communication, no corporate speak
Recent wins
Selected client work and personal products
Content Factory
/ AutomationAutomated social content creation for Instagram and TikTok
5 posts/day
Zero manual design
Idea
Building
MVP
Live
Full Outbound Automation
/ AutomationAutomated B2B lead sourcing and personalized cold email outreach
10 leads/day
4-email sequence
Idea
Building
MVP
Live
UX Audit App
/ ProductAI tool that analyzes user session recordings to find UX problems
AI session analysis
Friction detection
Idea
Exploring
Building
MVP
Live
Dormant
AI Talk Coach
/ ProductPractice speaking with AI feedback on filler words and pacing
Speech feedback
Interview prep
Idea
Exploring
Building
MVP
Pivot
Live
Signal Harvester
/ ProductTurn Instagram and TikTok comments into new customers
Intent detection
DM drafting
Idea
Exploring
Building
MVP
Live
Freelance developer vs AI automation consultant: when to choose Ze Lu
A practical fit for founders who need speed, ownership, and production delivery
Typical freelancer model
- Task execution with limited product ownership
- Slow handoffs across design/dev/ops
- Limited automation strategy depth
Ze Lu delivery model
- End-to-end build ownership from brief to production
- AI workflow automation integrated into product decisions
- Fast iteration loops with measurable business outcomes
Ways to work together
Choose the engagement that fits your needs
Workflow Audit
See what can be automated
A review of your current workflow to identify what's manual, repetitive, and could be automated. I provide specific recommendations with rough time estimates.
Ideal for:
- You're doing too much manual data entry
- You want to see if automation makes sense
- You need a roadmap before committing to build
What's included:
- Call to review your current workflow
- Written report of automation opportunities
- Recommended approach for each
- Rough estimates for implementation
Timeline: About a week
Automation Build
Build a specific automation
I build a defined automation or integration. This works when you know what you need automated and we can scope it clearly upfront.
Ideal for:
- You know exactly what needs automating
- You want a fixed scope and timeline
- You need something specific built and deployed
What's included:
- Development of the automation
- Testing with your actual data
- Documentation of how it works
- Support for any bugs after launch
Timeline: Typically 1-3 weeks
Product Build
Build a web application
I develop a web application from scratch or add significant features to an existing one. Works best when requirements are clear and scope is defined.
Ideal for:
- You have a clear product idea to build
- You need a working version quickly
- You want a Rails developer with AI experience
What's included:
- Planning and feature scoping
- Full-stack development (Rails, JS, etc.)
- Deployment to production
- Documentation and code handoff
- Bug fixes after launch
Timeline: Depends on scope, typically weeks not months
Great fit if you:
- Have a clear problem or opportunity to address
- Value fast iteration and weekly updates
- Want measurable outcomes, not just deliverables
- Are open to feedback and collaboration
Not a fit if you:
- Need a large team or multiple specialists
- Require waterfall process with detailed upfront specs
- Have an urgent deadline (less than 1 week)
- Aren't ready to provide feedback during development
About me
I'm Ze Lu Sottomayor, a full-stack developer based in Lisbon.
I build AI-powered tools and automation systems for founders and small teams.
More about me →Frequently asked questions about custom software and AI automation
Quick answers to help founders evaluate fit before booking a call
Do you only work with startups?
No. I work with startups, agencies, and established small businesses that want better systems, faster delivery, and less manual operational work.
Can you integrate with our existing tools?
Yes. Most projects involve integrating with existing tools like CRMs, payment systems, analytics platforms, or internal databases. The goal is to improve your current workflow, not force a full rebuild.
What makes AI automation projects succeed?
Clear business outcomes, short iteration cycles, and close feedback loops. We prioritize production-ready deliverables early, then refine based on real usage data.
Do you provide Rails-focused consulting for automation-heavy apps?
Yes. I help teams improve existing Rails codebases, add AI-assisted workflows, and reduce operational bottlenecks with pragmatic, maintainable architecture decisions.
Can you build and launch an MVP fast for validation?
Yes. I ship pragmatic MVPs focused on one core value proposition, then iterate quickly using real usage and conversion data instead of assumptions.