About
Ruggedly Refined Studios, LLC was founded in 2013 by Kyle Kohlman.
While working at a popular movie rental (now streaming service) company in 2009, Kyle was answering roughly 100 phone calls per day – many requesting that the website be “fixed”. With no pull as a lowly Customer Service Representative he eventually put in his notice and set out on his own. Being mostly self-taught in HTML, CSS and JavaScript, he enrolled in PCC’s Web Development and Design program. This certificate supplemented his existing web skills and his B.S. in Psychology from Oregon State University, which enthralled him with the study of human factors in air-and-space vehicle navigation instrument panels.
Kyle uses the comparison of a car’s dashboard to a website:
“There’s a reason the speedometer is here, and that the fuel gauge is there – and a reason why they’re the size they are. Your eyes are drawn to the most important information, and where your eyes go next needs to make sense. The same applies to a website. Get your user from one point of information to the next, and get them there logically [and safely].”
Ruggedly Refined operates around the philosophy that every website (1) should function effortlessly and efficiently for both front-end and back-end users, and (2) have a timeless design that is also sleek and modern. It’s in our name:
rug-ged-ly, adv.
In a manner consisting of a sturdy build, toughness or strong constitution
Like a tree…
re-fined, adj.
Improved to be more precise or exact; elegant, freed from impurities
… in a tuxedo.
You need a site that works hard for you. You also want a site that looks good and effectively targets your audience. At Ruggedly Refined, it’s all about making your business look great with a website that effectively communicates your story. The design and development process delivers you an intuitive, easy-to-use site for both you and your customers and clients. Taking the time to learn about you and your business to custom design a site to fit your needs is not only essential, but a privilege. Based in Portland, but available world-wide (web), let’s develop a plan and help your business grow!
We want to get excited about your project. Help us get to know it - and you!
One of the best parts of the web services field of work is that we get to see behind the curtain to discover what makes your company unique. This way, we can speak your language to your clients, and keep them coming back to you for more.
Let us help you navigate the nuances of the web, so you can focus on doing the work you love.
Kyle
CEO & Web Master
Ruggedly Refined