Have a project in mind?
Let's discuss what you're working on and how I can help.
I typically respond within 24 hours.
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
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
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 →