Published version of an article in the journal: Modeling, Identification and Control. Also available from the publisher at: http://dx.doi.org/10.4173/mic.2014.3.4 Open AccessIn this paper, we present a novel two-step strategy for static output-feedback controller design. In the first step, an optimal state-feedback controller is obtained by means of a linear matrix inequality (LMI) formulation. In the second step, a transformation of the LMI variables is used to derive a suitable LMI formulation for the static output-feedback controller. This design strategy can be applied to a wide range of practical problems, including vibration control of large structures, control of oshore wind turbines, control of automotive suspensions, vehicle drivin...