Cihan Yakar, Developer in Ankara, Turkey
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Cihan Yakar

Bio

Cihan is a professional with 20 years of experience in software development. He focuses on full-stack development and machine learning and is a regular speaker at international and local conferences, focusing on .NET, React, and AI. Cihan received the prestigious Microsoft Most Valuable Professional award for three consecutive years.

Portfolio

Bitsody Software
TypeScript, React, Next.js, React Native, REST, HTML, .NET, Microsoft...
Packt Publishing
Editorials, Reviews, Bug Fixes, Open Source, React, TypeScript, Remote Work...
Client
JavaScript, C#, .NET, SQL Server 2017, C#.NET, HTML, CSS, UI Design, Blazor...

Experience

  • C# - 15 years
  • SQL - 10 years
  • LINQ - 10 years
  • TypeScript - 9 years
  • Azure - 7 years
  • Node.js - 6 years
  • React - 5 years
  • Next.js - 2 years

Preferred Environment

Microsoft, REST, .NET, Next.js, Node.js, MongoDB, React, Web Applications, Back-end, Machine Learning

The most amazing...

...thing I've developed is a loyalty application portal for shopping malls, which is used by more than 300 malls and has touched millions of users.

Work Experience

Founder

2021 - PRESENT
Bitsody Software
  • Developed a mobile app for Turkiye's biggest crowdfunding platform, making it easier for people to invest in projects they care about.
  • Acted as a software management consultant on a project that got its first investment, helping to steer it in the right direction.
  • Contributed to some popular open-source UI frameworks that developers use all the time, making them better and more user-friendly.
Technologies: TypeScript, React, Next.js, React Native, REST, HTML, .NET, Microsoft, JetBrains IDE, C#, Management, APIs, .NET 5, Databases, Document Databases, Web Development, Software Architecture, Leadership, GraphQL, TypeScript 3, Node.js, CSS, Full-stack, Docker, C#.NET, PostgreSQL, HTML5, Architecture, Figma, REST APIs, Front-end, Web Consulting, MongoDB, Apollo Server, Neo4j, GitHub, CI/CD Pipelines, Angular, WebSockets, Frameworks, SCSS, DevOps, Azure DevOps, Web Applications, Programming Languages, Back-end, Git, NoSQL, ChatGPT API, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Redis, User Interface (UI), User Experience (UX), SQL Server 2017, UI Design, Data Visualization, Finance, Dashboards, Prisma, Single Sign-on (SSO), Azure App Service, Kubernetes, Front-end Development, Azure OpenAI Service, .NET Framework, Entity Framework, .NET Aspire, Freelancing

Technical Reviewer

2020 - PRESENT
Packt Publishing
  • Reviewed "The TypeScript Workshop: A practical guide to confident, effective TypeScript programming," sharing insights to help others learn and apply TypeScript.
  • Reviewed "The React Workshop: Get started with building web applications using practical tips and examples from React use cases," contributing to the understanding of building with React.
  • Reviewed "React Key Concepts: Consolidate your knowledge of React's core features," offering thoughts on strengthening skills in React's essential aspects.
  • Collaborated with the authors and editorial team to ensure the highest quality content, enhancing the clarity and effectiveness of published materials and contributing to the success of several best-selling technical guides.
Technologies: Editorials, Reviews, Bug Fixes, Open Source, React, TypeScript, Remote Work, Books, Front-end, Web Consulting, GitHub, WebSockets, Frameworks, Node.js, Web Applications, Git, NoSQL, UI Design, Prisma, Single Sign-on (SSO), Azure App Service, Front-end Development, .NET Framework, Freelancing

Full-stack C#.NET Developer

2023 - 2024
Client
  • Modernized the user interface by integrating Blazor, significantly enhancing UX/UI design and interactivity.
  • Translated a legacy C# codebase to modern C#.NET standards, improving system performance while ensuring backward compatibility and seamless integration with existing modules.
  • Integrated Telerik's Blazor components successfully into the project for the first time, streamlining the development process and enhancing UI features.
Technologies: JavaScript, C#, .NET, SQL Server 2017, C#.NET, HTML, CSS, UI Design, Blazor, Front-end Development, .NET Framework, Entity Framework, Freelancing

Full-stack Developer

2023 - 2023
Client
  • Created a duplex connection between Azure Functions and Windows Services, streamlining the communication process and enhancing the efficiency of order handling.
  • Connected various food delivery services' APIs to manage orders, enabling a centralized platform for tracking and fulfillment, improving response time and customer satisfaction.
  • Used Google BigQuery services for data analytics and insights, helping to understand customer behavior and preferences, leading to more targeted marketing and menu planning.
  • Implemented an adaptive approach using JavaScript frameworks that best suited the project's needs, optimizing the back-end processes and contributing to a more responsive and reliable food ordering system.
Technologies: JavaScript, API Documentation, .NET, Azure, Azure Functions, MongoDB, Azure Cosmos DB, Sockets, Windows, TypeScript, C#, C#.NET, Google BigQuery, Back-end, Git, NoSQL, Artificial Intelligence (AI), User Interface (UI), User Experience (UX), UI Design, Dashboards, Single Sign-on (SSO), Blazor, Azure App Service, Front-end Development, .NET Framework, Freelancing

Senior Back-end Developer

2022 - 2022
Client
  • Learned cloud security details firsthand, rapidly adapting to the company's specific methodologies and contributing expertise in Azure to expand the service offerings.
  • Utilized AWS technologies such as AWS Lambda and Amazon Kinesis, demonstrating flexibility in working across different cloud platforms to ensure seamless integration and functionality.
  • Created integrations with Azure Cloud, Azure AD, and Microsoft 365, providing the client with a parallel service offering in the Microsoft Cloud environment and enhancing their product portfolio.
  • Assisted the existing team in understanding Azure-related services, fulfilling the role of both a technical expert and a pedagogue to foster knowledge transfer and skill development within the company.
  • Collaborated across different time zones with teams based in the USA and India, maintaining effective communication and alignment on goals.
Technologies: Azure, JavaScript, TypeScript, Amazon Web Services (AWS), DevOps, Web Applications, Back-end, Git, NoSQL, Okta, User Experience (UX), UI Design, Azure App Service, Kubernetes, Freelancing

Senior Front-end Developer

2022 - 2022
Client
  • Moved the project's state management from Redux to Zustand, improving the efficiency and maintainability of the code in line with the enterprise-grade standards.
  • Transformed the project's structure from class-based to function-based, enhancing modularity and facilitating smoother collaboration with other team members.
  • Worked with the Python back-end service via the Socket.IO library, ensuring seamless integration and real-time communication between the front-end and back-end systems.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams including product management, design, data science, and DevOps to create user-centered products, contributing to the company's innovative approach in the energy industry.
  • Utilized knowledge in React and additional skills in D3.js and Mapbox.
Technologies: React, JavaScript, TypeScript, Node.js, Web Applications, Back-end, Git, NoSQL, User Interface (UI), User Experience (UX), UI Design, Data Visualization, Dashboards, Azure App Service, Front-end Development, Freelancing

Senior Back-end Developer

2022 - 2022
Client
  • Developed a dashboard application to display waste management statistics, translating existing Excel-based processes into an interactive web interface, aiding in better decision-making and real-time tracking.
  • Implemented GraphQL over Apollo Server and Express, enabling efficient consumption of several APIs and ensuring seamless integration across various services.
  • Utilized Auth0 and Auth0 APIs for authentication, with custom role management integration, providing a secure and user-specific experience tailored to different access levels.
  • Managed a Metabase application via APIs, dynamically updating the information to reflect the latest statistics in waste management and recycling, contributing to the company's agile and data-driven approach.
  • Collaborated with a team of specialists in waste management and recycling, applying a combination of planning, practical implementation, and operation to meet the diverse challenges and needs of various client groups in the waste pyramid.
Technologies: Apollo Server, APIs, Node.js, React, GraphQL, MongoDB, Metabase, Auth0, Auth0 API, JavaScript, TypeScript, Express.js, Databases, CI/CD Pipelines, Frameworks, SCSS, DevOps, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Web Applications, Back-end, Git, NoSQL, User Experience (UX), Azure App Service, Freelancing

Chief Technology Officer

2011 - 2020
Omega BigData
  • Developed a cutting-edge loyalty application for industrial companies, leading to recognition through numerous awards and solidifying the company's reputation for innovative solutions.
  • Built a mall loyalty CRM system that captured a 90% market share in Turkey, showcasing a strong understanding of market needs and delivering a highly effective and dominant product.
  • Received an award for exporting the shopping mall's application software, reflecting the international appeal and quality of the product and contributing to the company's global reach.
  • Managed and guided the software development team as the chief technology officer (CTO), fostering a collaborative environment and driving the successful execution of complex projects aligned with the company's strategic goals.
Technologies: C#, .NET, .NET Core, Windows Presentation Foundation (WPF), Windows Communication Foundation (WCF), LINQ, Microsoft SQL Server, Full-stack Development, REST, HTML, JavaScript, Microsoft, Management, APIs, .NET 5, Databases, Web Development, Software Architecture, Leadership, SQL, TypeScript 3, CTO, CSS, Full-stack, Docker, C#.NET, HTML5, Architecture, REST APIs, Front-end, GitHub, CI/CD Pipelines, WebSockets, Unity, Unity3D, Frameworks, SCSS, DevOps, Azure DevOps, TypeScript, Web Applications, Back-end, Git, NoSQL, User Experience (UX), SQL Server 2017, UI Design, Data Visualization, VB.NET, Data Scraping, Blazor, Azure App Service, Front-end Development, .NET Framework, Entity Framework, Freelancing, Construct

Senior Full-stack Developer

2010 - 2011
Devartes
  • Developed Turkey's 2nd most played online tabletop games management portal, demonstrating expertise in design and development and contributing to a platform enjoyed by a vast audience.
  • Mastered the model-view-controller (MVC) pattern through hands-on full-stack project practice, enhancing both technical proficiency and the overall quality of the product.
  • Adapted to remote working conditions for the first time, gaining valuable experience in collaboration, communication, and self-management in a remote environment, an essential skill in today's globalized workforce.
Technologies: ASP.NET, C#, ASP.NET MVC, SQL, C#.NET, HTML5, REST APIs, Front-end, Web Applications, Back-end, Git, User Interface (UI), User Experience (UX), UI Design, Dashboards, C#.NET WinForms, VB.NET, Azure App Service, Front-end Development, .NET Framework, Entity Framework, Freelancing

Founder

2007 - 2009
Antser
  • Developed a desktop application tailored to the needs of the local council, providing a solution that was adopted and implemented at the community governance level.
  • Introduced Microsoft SQL Server into the technology stack, leveraging it as a database for the 1st time and enhancing data management capabilities.
  • Created innovative tools to increase productivity within the hardware division, contributing to more efficient processes and a more streamlined workflow.
  • Founded Antser, taking the initiative to start a business and successfully navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, from idea conception to operational execution.
  • Developed dozens of websites for local small businesses, supporting the community by providing tailored solutions that helped enhance their online presence and grow their operations.
Technologies: ASP.NET, C#, HTML, JavaScript, .NET, Microsoft, Management, APIs, Databases, Web Development, Software Architecture, Leadership, REST APIs, SQL, MySQL, CSS, Full-stack, C#.NET, HTML5, Front-end, Web Applications, Back-end, Git, User Interface (UI), User Experience (UX), UI Design, C#.NET WinForms, VB.NET, Front-end Development, .NET Framework, Freelancing

Experience

MallOmega

MallOmega manages all customer loyalty processes of shopping malls and helps them transform the customer data into actionable intelligence on what to do next. With flexible campaign creation, infrastructure campaigns can be implemented within minutes. Each campaign's mechanics and rules can be changed without additional coding costs.

Vendor Wizard

Vendor-wizard is a unique software that manages companies' customer relations and campaign processes with chain stores, dealers, and sales points. Prepared with an industry-independent architecture, Vendor-Wizard collects and singularizes customer information in detail and records all customers' transactions (shopping, survey, online interaction, mobile interaction, etc.). It carries out the company's campaigns to touch its customers and reward its customers and salespeople.

Twifts

A React-based platform using OpenAI's ChatGPT, Azure Functions, and Azure Static Web Apps, Twifts combines AI and social media for personalized gift discovery. I played a key role in creating and optimizing algorithms, using these technologies to help users find unique and memorable gifts. This project eliminates generic gift choices and last-minute shopping stress, making the user the ultimate gift-giver among friends.

Wordybeat Game

A React and Azure-powered word game, Wordybeat challenges players to create words using a daily refreshed pool of letters, with the goal of achieving the highest score. I was involved in developing the game mechanics and integrating technologies, crafting a fun and engaging experience that promotes creativity and strategic thinking.

EngSpa Dictionary Mobile App

A React Native and SQL Lite-based mobile application, EngSpa serves as a bi-directional dictionary that enables translations between English and Spanish without needing an internet connection. I developed a user-friendly interface and ensured rapid search results. The app also includes features like a call log to view previous calls and the ability to call them again directly from the app, making it a convenient and functional tool for language translation.

Mall-Wizard

Mall Wizzard is Turkey’s leading shopping center loyalty CRM. The company’s campaign management system was already running on more than 30 shopping malls in 15 different cities. Still, many shopping malls like Corio, JLL, Torunlar GYO, and Rönesans GYO nowadays manage customer-oriented activities via Mall Wizard.

Cloud Security SaaS App

I contributed to a cloud security services project focusing on Azure integration. I utilized technologies such as AWS Lambda, Amazon Kinesis, and Azure Cloud to set up and analyze the Azure environment. As part of the role, I assisted the existing team in understanding Azure services, contributed to the SaaS product offering, and ensured hands-on experience with AWS and Azure platforms. This role required excellent communication, responsibility, and self-driven skills.

Waste Management Dashboard

I developed a web application for a waste management and recycling consulting company, transforming their existing services from Excel sheets into a dynamic dashboard. Utilized technologies such as GraphQL over Apollo Server and Express and integrated Auth0 for custom role management. Additionally, I managed a Metabase application via APIs to ensure dynamic updates, contributing to a more efficient and modernized approach to waste management statistics.

Revolutionizing Energy Decision-making: A Front-end Development Project

I collaborated on a front-end development project for a Europe-based startup in the energy industry. I transformed the project's structure from class-based to function-based, moved state management from Redux to Zustand, and integrated the Python back-end service via Socket.IO. This work contributed to a groundbreaking approach to energy decision-making, utilizing technologies such as React, D3.js, and Mapbox.

Order Management Transformation: Bridging Azure Functions with Kitchen Operations

I engineered a system that bridged Azure Functions and Windows Service to create a duplex connection, transforming the way food orders were handled. By connecting various food delivery service APIs, I managed to centralize order management and utilized Google BigQuery services to gain actionable insights and analytics. The project was critical in optimizing restaurant operations, ensuring efficient handling of orders akin to leading food service apps.

Online Tabletop Games Portal Development

I participated in the development of an online tabletop games management portal that became Turkey's 2nd most played at the time, utilizing Windows Forms and Silverlight. The project involved transitioning the structure from class-based to function-based, enhancing gameplay and user experience. Though the system is no longer operational, this work marked a significant advancement in my understanding of the MVC pattern and provided valuable remote working experience for the first time.

Local Council Management Software Development

I designed and developed a desktop application using VB.NET WinForms and MS SQL to assist the local council mayor in daily routine planning and public relations management. This project marked my first experience using Microsoft SQL Server as a database. It offered a hands-on opportunity to create tools that increased efficiency and productivity within the hardware division.

Education

2011 - 2014

Master's Degree in Management Information Systems

Gazi University - Ankara, Turkey

Certifications

FEBRUARY 2020 - PRESENT

Azure AI Engineer Associate

Microsoft

MARCH 2013 - MARCH 2022

Microsoft Certified Trainer

Microsoft

Skills

Libraries/APIs

React, Node.js, LINQ, REST APIs, Entity Framework, Auth0 API, Sockets, D3.js, Socket.IO, Windows Forms (WinForms)

Tools

Microsoft Silverlight, GitHub, Git, C#.NET WinForms, Azure App Service, Azure OpenAI Service, Visual Studio LightSwitch, WCF RIA Services, Prisma, Figma, Auth0, DeepSeek

Languages

C#, TypeScript, SQL, JavaScript, HTML, CSS, TypeScript 3, C#.NET, HTML5, TypeScript 2, CSS3, GraphQL, SCSS, VB.NET, C++, Python

Frameworks

Next.js, Windows Presentation Foundation (WPF), .NET, .NET Core, ASP.NET, .NET 5, Material UI, LightSwitch, Blazor, .NET Aspire, React Native, Angular, Unity, Unity3D, VB.NET WinForms, ASP.NET MVC, Knockout (Knockout.js), Express.js, Redux

Paradigms

REST, UI Design, Management, Azure DevOps, DevOps, ETL

Platforms

Azure, Microsoft, Docker, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Kubernetes, Azure Functions, Windows, Mapbox, Desktop

Storage

Microsoft SQL Server, Databases, MongoDB, NoSQL, SQL Server 2017, Graph Databases, Document Databases, PostgreSQL, Azure Cosmos DB, Redis, MySQL, Neo4j, SQLite, SQL Server 2008, IIS SQL Server, SQL Server DBA

Other

JetBrains IDE, Full-stack Development, HTTP, Full-stack, APIs, Web Development, Software Architecture, Architecture, SOAP, Front-end, Web Consulting, Freelancing, CI/CD Pipelines, Frameworks, Web Applications, Programming Languages, Back-end, ChatGPT API, Artificial Intelligence (AI), User Interface (UI), User Experience (UX), OpenAI, Dashboards, Single Sign-on (SSO), Data Scraping, Front-end Development, .NET Framework, Construct, Data Science, IT Project Management, Statistics, Windows Communication Foundation (WCF), Tutoring, Leadership, CTO, Apollo Server, Okta, Data Visualization, Finance, Online Tutoring, Editorials, Reviews, Bug Fixes, Open Source, Remote Work, Books, Metabase, WebSockets, API Documentation, Google BigQuery, OpenAI GPT-3 API, OpenAI GPT-4 API, Games, Machine Learning, Zustand, Printing

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