Dan Knauss

Senior Solution Architect

GitHub | Email | LinkedIn

204-9664 106 Ave. NW, Edmonton, CA

About

Highly accomplished generalist with over two decades of experience in WordPress and open source ecosystems, digital transformation, and content strategy. Specializing in designing scalable enterprise solutions and leading complex migrations for global clients. Proven ability to translate intricate technical challenges into clear, actionable strategies, fostering cross-functional collaboration and driving significant business impact. Expertise spans consultative sales, project management, operational workflow analysis, and conflict resolution, underpinned by a strong background in academic, journalistic, and open-source cultures. Committed to leveraging technology for civic advocacy and independent journalism.

Work Experience

Senior Solution Architect

Multidots

Jan 2023 - Present

Architecting and implementing advanced WordPress solutions for enterprise-level clients across APAC and AMER regions as part of a globally distributed agency and WP VIP Gold Partner.

  • Led the architectural design and implementation of complex WordPress solutions, ensuring scalability, performance, and security for large-scale enterprise clients.
  • Provided strategic technical consulting and pre-sales support, translating client requirements into robust, actionable architectural blueprints.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional global teams to deliver high-impact projects, fostering seamless integration and operational efficiency.
  • Contributed to the agency's reputation as a WP VIP Gold Partner by maintaining high standards of technical excellence and client satisfaction.

Technical Content Generalist

Liquid Web / StellarWP

Jan 2022 - Dec 2023

Developed and executed comprehensive content strategies for leading WordPress product lines, driving brand visibility and customer engagement.

  • Authored and edited over 100 technical articles and marketing copy, significantly enhancing product documentation and brand messaging.
  • Managed content for product launches, redesigns, and rebranding initiatives, ensuring consistent and compelling narratives.
  • Secured earned media coverage through high-quality content, amplifying product reach and market presence.
  • Collaborated with product development and marketing teams to align content with strategic business objectives.

Editor

Post Status

Jan 2017 - Dec 2022

Oversaw editorial direction and content quality for a prominent WordPress industry publication, shaping discourse and engaging a professional community.

  • Managed the editorial calendar and content pipeline, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality articles and insights.
  • Provided comprehensive editing and review for diverse content, maintaining editorial standards and voice.
  • Collaborated closely with the founder to evolve content strategy and expand audience engagement.
  • Contributed to the growth and influence of a key industry platform through consistent, valuable content.

Solution Developer

New Local Media

Jan 2004 - Dec 2020

Designed and implemented web solutions, primarily using WordPress and open-source technologies, to support independent journalism and civic advocacy initiatives.

  • Developed custom web solutions and platforms leveraging WordPress and open-source tools for diverse clients across the US and Canada.
  • Provided technical consulting and development expertise for non-profit organizations and independent media projects.
  • Managed full lifecycle development from conceptualization to deployment, ensuring robust and user-friendly applications.
  • Advocated for and implemented open-source solutions, promoting accessibility and sustainability in digital media.

Sessional Faculty

MacEwan University

Jan 2017 - Dec 2019

Taught academic courses, contributing to curriculum development and student mentorship.

  • Delivered engaging lectures and facilitated discussions for university-level courses.
  • Developed and updated course materials to reflect current academic standards and industry trends.
  • Mentored students, providing guidance and support to foster academic and professional growth.

Full-Time Parent

School of Dad

Jan 2004 - Dec 2017

Managed household operations and child development, demonstrating extensive organizational, logistical, and problem-solving skills.

  • Managed complex daily schedules and logistics for multiple children, optimizing resource allocation.
  • Developed and implemented effective strategies for problem-solving and conflict resolution within a dynamic family environment.
  • Cultivated strong interpersonal communication and adaptability in diverse and demanding situations.

Teaching Fellow

Marquette University

Jan 1999 - Dec 2004

Contributed to academic instruction and research within the English department.

  • Assisted in course instruction and facilitated student learning in various English literature and writing courses.
  • Conducted research and contributed to academic projects, enhancing departmental scholarship.

Adjunct Faculty

University of Wisconsin-Madison

Jan 1998 - Dec 1999

Provided instruction as an adjunct faculty member.

  • Taught university-level courses, developing and delivering engaging lectures and assignments.

Adjunct Faculty

North Carolina State University and Campbell University

Jan 1995 - Dec 1997

Served as an adjunct faculty member, delivering instruction at two distinct universities.

  • Instructed students in diverse academic settings, adapting teaching methods to different institutional environments.

Education

English

North Carolina State University (NCSU)

Jan 1995 - Dec 1997

English

Campbell University

Jan 1991 - Dec 1995

Volunteer

Sponsored Contributor (Community Team)

WordPress Project

Jan 2024 - Present

Actively contribute to the WordPress open-source project, focusing on community development and support.

  • Contribute to the strategic direction and operational activities of the WordPress Community Team.
  • Support the growth and health of the global WordPress community through various initiatives.

Editor / Reviewer, CMS Chapter

HTTP Archive's Web Almanac

Jan 2021 - Present

Provide editorial oversight and technical review for the CMS chapter of the HTTP Archive's annual Web Almanac, a comprehensive report on the state of the web.

  • Reviewed and edited technical content for accuracy, clarity, and relevance within the CMS chapter.
  • Contributed to a leading industry report, influencing understanding of web technologies and trends.
  • Collaborated with a global team of experts to produce authoritative web performance and technology insights.

Projects

Digital Transformation at Syufy Enterprises LP

Jan 2024 - Dec 2024

Directed the Sitecore to WordPress migration for multiple brands and business lines within Syufy Enterprises LP, focusing on theater properties and their integration with the Vista cinema platform. Authored the comprehensive project case study.

SolidWP at StellarWP / Liquid Web

Jan 2023 - Dec 2023

Played a pivotal role in the product development, migration, redesign, and rebranding of SolidWP, including extensive content creation and securing earned media.

Writing, Editing, and Podcasting at Post Status, LLC

Jan 2020 - Dec 2022

Provided extensive writing, editing, and podcasting support for Post Status, contributing to its content strategy and media production.

Various Projects at People's Republic of Riverwest

Jan 1999 - Dec 2011

Initiated and supported multiple community-driven projects in Milwaukee, including a monthly newspaper, a grocery cooperative and cafe, and a housing redevelopment co-op, primarily leveraging WordPress for digital infrastructure.

Skills

Solution Architecture

  • Enterprise Solutions
  • System Design
  • Scalability
  • Performance Optimization
  • Technical Strategy

WordPress Ecosystem

  • WordPress VIP
  • Gutenberg
  • Plugin Development
  • Theme Development
  • Headless WordPress

Content Strategy & Management

  • Technical Writing
  • Editorial Leadership
  • Content Marketing
  • SEO
  • Digital Publishing

Project Management

  • Agile Methodologies
  • Stakeholder Management
  • Cross-functional Team Leadership
  • Risk Management

Client Engagement

  • Consultative Sales
  • Client Success
  • Relationship Management
  • Requirements Gathering

Process Improvement

  • Operational Workflow Analysis
  • Business Process Re-engineering
  • Efficiency Optimization

Open Source Technologies

  • Community Contribution
  • Civic Advocacy
  • Linux
  • Git

Digital Transformation

  • Platform Migration
  • Legacy System Integration
  • Change Management

Public Speaking & Podcasting

  • Technical Presentations
  • Webinars
  • Interviews
  • Thought Leadership

Web Development

  • HTML
  • CSS
  • JavaScript
  • PHP
  • Database Management