Managed Design Solutions – An equilibrium of family and work

Pace of life and quality family time was an important factor for Julian Drapiewski and Jonathan Grimes when they decided to establish a digital design management consultancy firm in County Galway.

“Living in the West of Ireland is very affordable and it’s a good place to bring up children without having any negative effect on our work,” says Julian. “It’s refreshing to know you can operate a tech-based company while still reaping all the benefits of living and working in rural areas where you don’t have to worry about urban factors,” agrees Jonathan.

Managed Design Solutions, which specialises in Building Information Modelling (BIM) for the construction industry and wastewater sector, was set up by co-founders Julian and Jonathan in 2018 and is now based in the Ballinasloe Enterprise Centre, at the heart of the Atlantic Economic Corridor. “Ballinasloe is a great location for encouraging potential employees and reaching clients because it has access to the Dublin and Galway motorways and it’s on the train to Dublin,” says Julian.

Originally from Poland, Julian and his wife moved to Athenry, Co Galway in 2004. For Julian, Maya and their four young children, Galway is home and being able to work close to home, near to the Atlantic coast and without battling traffic, is his dream scenario. “Jonathan and I both want to be available to our families and as entrepreneurs we have lots of flexibility in our work, but it wouldn’t be possible to have the same lifestyle in Dublin.”

Jonathan, who lives in Glenamaddy, Co Galway with his fiancée and daughter, says: “The centre has provided me with a highly affordable base close to home without having to compromise in regard to facilities, IT set up or potential for attracting employees. It’s great to feel that you can be part of encouraging the development of what is traditionally seen as a rural part of the country.”